photo courtesy of The Arnold Arboretum websiteRecommended New England course in tree identification

When moseying New England byways, I often ask my strolling companion to confirm the identities of trees on our path. More often than not, my strolling companion is my husband. More often than not, he looks at me quizzically in response. Not because he can’t identify the trees (He generally can’t.), but because he knows I know he generally can’t, yet I ask anyway. I simply wish to know. Finally, a solution: a free tree-identification workshop. I can think of one person who hopes I’ll sign up.

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

I’ve taken a couple of plant identification courses at The Arnold Arboretum before. Looks like it’s time for a refresher. According to their website, “The Arnold Arboretum's continuing adult education program offers one-day and multisession horticulture, botany, and landscape-related courses for the beginner, avid amateur, and professional.”

The Common Trees of Boston

Instructor: Ajay Sequeira, Arboretum Docent
Saturday: October 1, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Location: Hunnewell Building
Free

“Have you noticed a tree as you walked through the city, wanted to name it, but didn't know where to start? Join us for a walk through the Arboretum landscape. We will learn how to identify some of the trees commonly found in the Boston area. We will note some of the characteristics common to families of trees and learn about the differences that occur between species.”

Class and schedule are subject to change so check program websites for updates.
 
Take a look at my continuing-education posts from previous seasons to get a sense of the many quality continuing education programs operating in the region. Enroll in a workshop, demonstration, or presentation on a lark, and get your creative juices flowing.  Experience continuing-education bliss.

by Katie Hutchison for House Enthusiast