Join Michelle Catania, soil expert and green industry outreach coordinator for The Morton Arboretum, for a tour of the Arboretum’s underground. Learn how tree and plant health starts in the soil, and discuss the different facets of assessing soil health. We will look for soil clues like texture, organic matter content, and other features that can support healthy landscapes.
We’ll start in the Thornhill Education Center with a short classroom introduction before heading out to explore the varied soil conditions on the Arboretum’s grounds.
All experience levels are welcome.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Michelle Catania, green industry outreach coordinator, The Morton Arboretum
Continuing education: The application for ISA continuing education credits (CEUs) has been submitted for this program. If you are interested in continuing education credit, please contact education@mortonarb.org.
Age: 18 and older
Course number: H120
Instructor
Michelle Catania, green industry outreach coordinator, The Morton Arboretum
Michelle Catania is a certified arborist who is frequently called upon by the green industry for her expertise in urban environmental issues. Catania has co-published several journal articles geared toward improving urban soil conditions to promote healthy urban trees. Over the last several years, she has become a recognized leader in repackaging science and delivering it to the green industry through lectures, conference speaking engagements, and hands-on workshops. She is committed to helping urban trees succeed through educational outreach programs. She holds a BS in Biological Sciences and MS in Geography from Northern Illinois University.
What to Know
This program meets indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. Check the forecast and dress for the weather.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and plan to walk more than a mile on uneven terrain.
This program is open to all experience levels.
See Education Program Policies for information about cancellations, refunds, and scholarships.
Program Schedule
Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 9:30 a.m. to noon
Arbor Room, Thornhill Education Center (parking lot P-21), West Side
