Become a Tree Tender

Registration for the 2025 Tree Tenders Training Course is now open!

Register Today

 

Learn, Connect, Be Inspired

an instructor standing next to a tree

Course Outline & Topics

Ever wonder about the number one threat to the survival of newly planted trees? What tree species are best for clay soils? How can you help the tree canopy in your community? Through this multi-day course, our expert instructors deliver engaging sessions that will answer your questions and give you skills you can apply immediately in your own yard and/or neighbourhood.

LEARN the biology of trees from expert instructors, CONNECT with other tree lovers and BE INSPIRED to become an urban forest leader in your community!

people in a classroom looking at a branch and a book

 You will be introduced to the language of the urban forest:

  • Tree biology, anatomy and functions
  • Trees and soils
  • Tree identification
  • Identifying and managing tree stresses
  • Tree planting and establishment
  • Tree care and maintenance
  • Municipal bylaws and policies
  • How to champion tree equity

Cost: $75 + HST - includes all classes and course manual.

“I had a very good experience and learnt a lot of interesting things. I was super interested in Toronto tree policies and inequitable tree distribution, so it was really great to learn about that.”  2024 Tree Tenders Graduate

“As a researcher focused on the health impacts of climate change and the role of public policy, discovering LEAF has been a pivotal addition to my understanding. Planting trees is a key strategy for offsetting carbon emissions and improving air quality, but it's not as straightforward as it seems. LEAF provided the essential framework I needed to effectively engage in tree planting. Thank you, LEAF, for your invaluable guidance!” 2024 Tree Tenders Graduate

 

group of people standing in a park near a tree

 

Schedule of classes: 

  • Tuesday, April 29 – 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Virtual) 

  • Thursday, May 1 – 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Virtual) 

  • Saturday, May 3 – 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (In-Person) 

  • Tuesday, May 6 – 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Virtual) 

  • Thursday, May 8 – 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Virtual) 

  • Saturday, May 10 – 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (In-Person) 

Participation Requirements & Policies
instructor giving lecture next to tree
  • Space is limited.
  • Participants must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • The course consists of six sessions over two weeks.
  • To graduate, participants can not miss more than one session.
  • Missed classes cannot be made up in future courses.
  • Registration is confirmed only after full payment is received.
  • Payment cannot be refunded or deferred to future classes.
  • Paid registrants who cancel at least three weeks (21 days) prior to the event date will receive a 75% refund. Registrants who cancel with less than three weeks’ notice will not receive any refund.
Graduate Projects
person outside, smiling

Read about some of the projects our graduates are working on from tree audits to community gardens on library lawns. Take the course and get involved in your community!