Adult Opportunities

Basic Tree Identification

Learn how to identify trees in this in-person class at The Morton Arboretum.

Content Detail

Learn how to identify trees in this in-person class at The Morton Arboretum.

Get to know the common trees found in local preserves or in neighborhoods. In this class, participants will learn how to identify a tree by

  • using characteristics such as leaves, bark, branches, flowers, and fruit.
  • learning how to use tree identification keys and field guides.
  • practicing observation skills to see natural surroundings in a new way.

This tree ID course includes examples of common trees in Illinois and the Midwest, though the basic concepts you will learn can be applied to identifying trees in any region.

Tree identification is a useful skill and knowing how to identify a tree builds a deeper connection to nature. Come prepared to walk up to two miles on wood-chipped trails.

This program meets in person at The Morton Arboretum. If you’d like to learn from home, please check out the self-paced online course, Basic Tree ID (on demand).

Instructor: Kelly Burns, education program guide, The Morton Arboretum; Katrina Lewin, plant records coordinator, The Morton Arboretum

Continuing education: This class fulfills a plant identification requirement for the Natural Areas Conservation Training (N-ACT) Program.

Age: 16 and older

Course number: N142

Instructors

Kelly Burns, education program guide, The Morton Arboretum

Kelly Burns has been teaching at The Morton Arboretum since 2014. After earning a biology degree in 1995, she has enjoyed a wide variety of jobs: bat researcher, merit badge counselor, animal keeper, and teacher. She draws upon her experience and passion to help her audience understand and appreciate the natural world.

Katrina Lewin, plant records coordinator, The Morton Arboretum

Katrina Lewin has a bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture from the University of Illinois and has been a horticulturist at The Morton Arboretum since 2004. She enjoys teaching pruning and plant identification classes and is a frequent speaker at local garden clubs.

What to Know

Held mostly outdoors. Dress for the weather.

Bring sun and insect protection.

Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to walk up to two miles on uneven terrain.

Bring water and materials for taking notes outdoors.

Program Schedule

This program meets during these times; choose your session. Pricing is per session.

Thursday, October 24, 2024, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Thornhill Education Center (Parking Lot 22), West Side

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