Knowing what and when to prune, and how to do so, are important as you manage your home landscape. Learn the basic techniques for pruning ornamental shrubs for optimum health and beauty. Jen Kettell, an ISA-certified arborist will address topics including pruning cuts and tools; thinning and reducing overgrown plants; shaping and encouraging new growth.
Fee $20 member, $30 nonmember

Massachusetts Certified Arborist and International Society of Arboriculture CEUs available.

In 1970, Philippe de Spoelberch started a plant collection in Herkenrode, Belgium. Now, forty-eight years later, after expanding to neighboring property, his initial efforts have blossomed into Arboretum Wespelaar, which opened to the public in 2001. Comprising more than 15,000 accessioned plants, with renowned collections of maple, rhododendron, magnolia, and beech, the Arboretum’s mission is similar to that of the Arnold Arboretum: to contribute to the knowledge and further study of all woody plants from the temperate climates of the world. As well, Arboretum Wespelaar has a focus on...

Read more about Arboretum Wespelaar: A contemporary arboretum, from concept to realization, in a lifetime

Grafting is the technique of joining parts of separate plants in such a manner that they unite and continue their growth as one. Learn basic principles of grafting with an overview of different types of dormant-season grafts. Arnold Arboretum propagator Sean will provide step-by-step instructions so that you can practice both cleft and side veneer grafts using apple root stock. Simple after-care will be required until planting out in springtime. Registrants will need to sign an Assumption of Risk and Release in order to participate in this class.
Fee $62 member, $75 nonmember... Read more about Grafting Woody Plants

Great scenery and exercise, who could want more? Take a brisk walk this winter and stay healthy and connected to the Arboretum at a time when the landscape is pared down to its beautiful bones. This walk emphasizes fitness, with a healthy dose of information on seasonal highlights. Winter tours are geared to adults and led by trained Arboretum docents. Sign up for one or all! Please dress appropriately for the weather. 

In case of inclement weather, contact 617.384.5209.

Free, Registration requested at ...

Read more about Winter Wellness Walks

February 9 – May 6, 2018

Opening Reception, Saturday, February 10, 1:00-3:00pm, snowdate Feb. 7

Walk and Talk with the Artist, Sunday, April 29, 2:00-3:00pm

Location: Hunnewell Building

Like Boston, the Arnold Arboretum is a diverse tapestry that comes together and creates a whole. Walkways flow from side roads to manicured trails to hidden paths revealing secret glades. If the visitor is not in a...

Read more about Close and Closer: Photographs of the Arnold Arboretum by James Reis

Explore the wonderful variety of bark textures, shapes, thicknesses, and colors, which are always-visible clues to tree identity. Through presentations and a series of participatory exercises, learn how to identify tree species by their bark, and uncover why such a variety of bark characteristics exist. See, touch, smell, and trace the contours of bark to hone perceptive skills and deepen intimacy with trees and the places where they grow. Class will meet indoors and in the landscape of the Arnold Arboretum. Open to tree enthusiasts at all levels of experience. Michael will be available to... Read more about Bark: A Multi-Sensory Experience of Trees

This expansive collection occupies 24 acres and is arranged to facilitate the study of cone-bearing plants. Come out, brave the elements, and learn about the many kinds of conifers at the Arboretum while a family activity and hot chocolate helps keep everyone warm.

Free! No registration needed. 

Jen Kettell, an ISA-certified arborist, will explain the reasons for pruning and what to consider when pruning dormant trees, shrubs, and vines. She will demonstrate techniques, give guidelines for determining which plants benefit from winter pruning, and explain how plants heal from pruning wounds. Note: this workshop teaches ornamental pruning techniques; it does not provide information on pruning for fruit production.
Fee $35 member, $48 nonmember

Massachusetts Certified Arborist and International Society of Arboriculture credits available.

Cure the winter doldrums! Students will learn the basics of bulb forcing and will plant a layered bulb container containing daffodils, hyacinths, grape hyacinths, and tulips. Bulb arrangements will be taken home to nurture and enjoy. Fee for all materials, including bulbs, soil, and container, is included in the cost of the class. Limited to 10; register early.
Fee $50 member, $63 nonmember

Register at my.arboretum.harvard.edu or call 617-384-5277.

This intensive introductory course will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to create a great-looking garden that is healthier for you, your family, and the environment. This class is based on the principles of the Sustainable Sites Initiative (sustainablesites.org), the nation’s first rating system for sustainable landscapes. The comprehensive curriculum covers a range of topics, including soils, water, plants, and landscape materials.
Fee $185 member, $218 nonmember

Register at my.arboretum.harvard.edu or call 617-384-5277.

Start your new year off on an easy 90 minute walk from the Arboretum's main Arborway Gate to the ponds and back. Our docent and experienced birder, Bob Mayer, will focus on winter birds, and as a bonus, he will be joined by Arboretum Gardener, Brendan Keegan. Brendan will point you to the woody plant collection that proves tempting as well as nourishing for our winter birds. Beginners, as well as more experienced birders, are welcome. Bring binoculars if you have them; some binoculars will be available to share. See... Read more about Winter Birding!