1. The gardens as classroom
This September, Tree Tenders participants will get to use the gardens, in autumn bloom, as their classroom. We’ll learn about tree identification by exploring the diversity of tree species in the garden – there’s much more variety here than in most other parts of the city. We also plan to take advantage of the beautiful location to learn about tree selection, planting, and care. Between the Toronto Botanical Garden and neighbouring Edwards Gardens, there is no end of gardens to explore and learn from. You’ll probably even go home with some great ideas for you own yard.
2. Plant a tree in the Woodland Walk
One of the new garden areas at TBG is the Woodland Walk and Bird Habitat. Combining native woodland and prairie garden species, this lovely garden provides year-round habitat for birds and other wildlife. Every Tree Tenders group plants a tree to gain hands-on experience in planting and mulching. This September, we’ll plant that tree in the Woodland Walk, where it will become a permanent fixture at the corner of Leslie and Lawrence. What a great legacy!
3. LEEDSilver Certified Building
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a third-party certification program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. The indoor portion of the course will take place in TBG’s LEED Silver Certified Building, which means it’s super environmentally friendly. With its green roof, low-flow plumbing, and rainwater recovery system, just visiting almost reduces your carbon footprint!
4. Have brunch in the garden
I’ve already talked about the beautiful grounds of the TBG and Edwards Gardens. This particular Tree Tenders session will be great for an outdoor brunch before the Sunday meeting. Visit TBG's Garden Cafe and take advantage of the outdoor patio overlooking the gardens. Sign up with a few friends and make a party out of it! I can already taste the hot coffee and smell the crisp fall air!
5. Become a Tree Tender
Last but certainly not least, by taking Tree Tenders this fall at TBG you’ll be joining an amazing group of nearly 500 other Tree Tenders graduates! Armed with knowledge about tree care and tree issues, Tree Tender graduates care for their own trees, adopt trees around the city, and are leaders in protecting the urban forest in their communities.
These are my top five reasons to take Tree Tenders at TBG this fall – what more can you think of?
Tree Tenders in fall 2013 runs Tuesday, September 24, 6-8:30 pm, Thursday September 26, 6-8:30 pm, Sunday, September 29, 11 am – 4 pm, and Tuesday, October 1, 6-8:30 pm. I’ll be there – will you join me?