Arboretum Classes

Classes at the Arboretum offer in-depth coverage of topics and explore ways humans interact with the environment, delving into natural history, conservation, restoration, Arboretum history, and the arts. For paid classes, refunds will be given while registration is open, minus a $10 service fee.

Advance registration is required. You will receive two automated email acknowledgements after you register: One is a payment confirmation, the other is a registration confirmation for the class you’re attending. Save these emails for your records.

Spring 2025 Classes

Phenology – Keeping Track of Nature
Saturday, March 22, 1–3 p.m. The March equinox is the perfect time to think about spring unfolding. Phenology – noting the periodic occurrences in the natural world – is both art and science, practiced for millennia across cultures and regions. Learn about different approaches and maybe find your own. Instructor: Kathy Miner, Arboretum naturalist. Indoor class. Fee: $20. Registration closed March 18. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Mindfulness in Nature: Roots of Awareness
Saturday, May 24, 1–4 p.m. Mindfulness helps reduce stress and improve physical and mental health using a moment-to-moment awareness of one’s experience without judgment. Mindfulness In Nature uses nature for all practices (sitting, standing, and moving). Monthly series runs through October. No experience needed. Instructor: Roger Reynolds, certified natural mindfulness guide. Outdoor class. Fee: $10. Register by May 21. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Bluebirds and the Arboretum Trail
Saturday, May 31, 1–3 p.m. Learn about the fascinating lives of bluebirds, their behavior, why their populations declined, and restoration efforts. Instructor Sylvia Marek, Arboretum naturalist, created the Arboretum bluebird trail in 1988 and has monitored it for more than 30 years. Instructor: Sylvia Marek, Arboretum naturalist. Indoor presentation followed by a walk of the trail. Fee: $20. Register by May 27. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Annual Learning Programs

Native Gardening Conference

Held every September at the Arboretum, the Native Gardening Conference promotes sustainable gardening practices and use of native plants in home landscapes. The program welcomes people with a range of interests and experience.

Winter Enrichment

The Arboretum’s long-running Winter Enrichment series offers engaging talks and conversation for naturalists, volunteers, friends, and community members. See the Winter Enrichment page for more information.

Friends of the Arboretum Luncheon-Lectures

The Luncheon-Lectures series, organized by Friends of the Arboretum, presents monthly talks with a catered lunch. Friends receive priority registration, but talks are open to anyone as space allows.