Workshops

An introduction to the composting process including the role of microbes, greens and browns, carbon to nitrogen ratios, moisture levels, the importance of temperature and a definition for finished compost. We’ll take a brief look at the pros and cons of various composting methods so that you can select the right workshop for you, in the following weeks.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

 

This half-day workshop will introduce you to the fundamentals of pruning and aims to provide you with basic skills to confidently approach pruning in your own landscape. We begin with how to form pruning strategies, including choosing and maintaining equipment and understanding plant growth and timing. Pruning cuts and techniques will be discussed, demonstrated, and practiced together outdoors.

Fee: $65 (plus HST) per person if booked before the early bird deadline of Monday, March 10, 2025. After the early bird deadline the fee is $75 (plus HST)

 

The previous workshop provided information about the composting process. This workshop is more hands on and looks at various methods for completing both hot and cold composting. Hot composting is the traditional method using one or more bins. This is a great system that makes faster compost, but it is impractical for smaller gardens. Various plastic bins and drums are more suitable there. We’ll have a look at various commercial and DIY systems.

At the end of this course you will be able to select the right composting system that meets your requirements and you will know how to start the process, care for it, and what to do with the finished compost.

If you are going to take this course it is a good idea to also take Introduction to Composting for Gardeners.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

 

Vermicomposting is a way of using earth worms to compost organic material. One benefit of this method is that it can be done in the home using special bins that require a very small space.

The course will introduce you to the equipment needed including some inexpensive DIY options. It will help you select the right kind of worms and show you how to maintain them to keep them healthy. We’ll review ways of harvesting the vermicasts – the worm poop – and explain how it should be treated for best results in the garden.

At the end of this course you will know the basics of taking care of your new pets and how to resolve any problems you might have.

If you are going to take this course it is a good idea to also take Introduction to Composting for Gardeners.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

 

Mohawk Creation Story - Friday, January 31, 2025
Story of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy - Friday, February 28, 2025 
Story of How Maple was Gifted to People - Friday, March 28, 2025
Story of the Three Sisters - Friday, April 25, 2025

Shé:kon Sewakwé:kon, Skén:nen! Hello Everyone, Peace be with you! My name is Cara Loft and I am a Haudenosaunee Woman who is a staff member at the Office of Teaching and Learning at the University of Guelph. I am excited to invite you to come spend time on the Land to listen to several traditional Kanien:ke (Mohawk) stories. During the long Winter months, when Mother Earth is asleep beneath her blanket of white, we share stories with one another and come together for community. The Kanien:ke culture is traditionally an oral language. Our history, teachings and other important information is conveyed through the practice of storytelling. For this event, we will begin, and end, in a Goodway; with smudge and a traditional handdrum song. We will then make tea for ourselves to stay warm and proceed to walk designated (clear) trails to re-connect with the Land. As we walk, I will share story in a Goodway. If the weather is inclement, and the trails are not clear, then we will gather inside for storytelling. If you are interested in learning more about the Kanien:ke culture, and re-connecting with the Land, please come share space with us! Please make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring a reusable mug for tea! Nia:wen Kowa! Thank you! – Cara

Dress for the weather as we will be outside unless the weather is inclement, then we will move indoors.
What to expect: There will be some traditional practices such as smudging, drumming and singing. So come with an open mind and heart. It is encouraged to bring a travel mug, to have some tea.

This program is FREE. We do ask that if you register and can't make it that you notify us so that someone else can have your spot as space is limited. You can register for one or more of the sessions.

 

A breathtaking ascent to the skies, a graceful fall to the ground, and a mesmerizing, yet quirky, call… PEENT. The sky dance of the American Woodcock is a truly incredible spectacle, and we at The Arboretum invite you to join us in a search for this captivating display! Our Woodcock Walk begins at the Nature Centre, where we’ll unveil some of the mystery behind these aerial acrobats before heading into the field with hopes of witnessing their enchanting performance in person.

Fee: $12 (plus HST) per person.

 

Into birding but the songs have you stumped?  Whether you are new to learning bird sounds or you want a good refresher, this course is for you. Join Chris Earley, Arboretum Interpretive Biologist and author of 5 bird field guides, for a series of eight virtual noon-hour lectures that cover over 150 bird species!  We will focus on songs and some common, distinctive calls and will apply different methods to remember them. Each course will start with a short intro topic about birding by ear before we dive into the bird species. Learn how to make your own calls, read a sonogram, make up your own memorable bird song sayings, and more!  Each class will finish with a 10-15 minute discussion period so you can ask all your bird-related questions.  See the descriptions below to find out which bird groups are covered in each class. All eight programs cost of $70 (plus tax) - that's less than $10 per program!  This fund-raising initiative will help support other Arboretum educational programs.

Fee: $70.00 + H.S.T.  This event will take place on Zoom. The list of topics with the presentation date is listed below.  If you miss any of the programs, each one is recorded and the recording will be sent to you the next day.  The recordings will be available for one month after the last program.

 Owls and Wetland Birds - Day 1 - Monday, March 17, 12 noon – 1:00 PM 
Whooooooo was that? Owls always grab our nightly attention but many wetland birds are also evening singers. We will cover a selection of rails, coots, bitterns, loons, grebes, and more. And don't forget a couple of glorious goatsuckers (whip-poor-wills and nighthawks)! This course will include teaching you how to speak "owl."

Blackbirds and Hawks - Day 2 - Wednesday, March 19, 12 noon – 1:00 PM
These two groups include some early migrants and now is the time we get to see them after a long absence! We will cover the whole blackbird family including meadowlarks, bobolinks, and orioles. We will also study some raptor calls so you can figure out who might be flying through or maybe nesting in your local forest.

Warblers I - Phrasers and Buzzers - Day 3 - Monday, March 24, 12 noon – 1:00 PM 
Knowing warbler song is a key element for finding these tiny trinkets of the treetops. The males will even sing during migration so knowing their voices is important. In this course we will start with the species that sing distinctive phrases or use a buzzy texture in their songs.

Warblers II - Trillers and Thrillers - Day 4 - Wednesday, March 26, 12 noon – 1:00 PM
So, this time things might be a bit more, um, difficult. Trilling birds are tricky but we will go through them and study the differences in these similar songs. We will also cover some other warblers that are a bit more musical and easier to figure out!
 

Sparrows - Day 5 - Monday, March 31, 12 noon – 1:00 PM 
They may be a lot duller to look at than warblers but most sparrows are much better singers! Sometimes it is easier to tell them apart by song than by sight. We will study who says "Home Sweet, Canada, Canada, Canada", "I gotta go wee wee now!" and "Won't you come sit down besiiiiiide meeeee?"

Finches and Thrushes - Day 6 - Wednesday, April 2, 12 noon – 1:00 PM 
Finches, including grosbeaks, redpolls, and crossbills, can be sparrow-like but are even better songsters. But some of them sound the same so we will figure out ways to tell them apart. Their call notes can be important during bird surveys so we will cover some of them, too. Thrushes have lovely voices and one was once voted as the best singing bird in North America! Find out which one at this workshop.

Woodpeckers and Flycatchers - Day 7 - Monday, April 7, 12 noon – 1:00 PM
Sometimes you have to know mechanical sounds to figure out a nearby territorial bird - woodpecker drumming is a prime example. They also make some distinctive calls. And speaking of distinctive, some flycatchers can only really be identified by their songs, not by sight! We will listen to these and get a handle on this confusing group.

 Wrens and Friends - Day 8 - Monday, April 9, 12 noon – 1:00 PM 
We will finish off with a hodge podge of species such as wrens, vireos, jays, nuthatches, kinglets, and more! Many of these live in forest habitats and could all be singing or calling at the same time so learning to differentiate them is an important skill. Are you ready for the challenge?

 

Get curious about nature and practice your observational skills with our nature journaling hikes! Great for those looking to get started, we will focus on the fundamentals so you can create your own nature journal! No artistic skill needed, nature journaling is about intentional curiosity and exploring the world you see around you! Each hike will cover a different theme, so repeat hikers are always welcome! All you need for these hikes is a sketchbook and something to write with – but feel free to bring your preferred supplies

The following is a list of topics for each program:

• May - Spring Flowers
• June - Insects
• July - Trees
• August - Fungi

*Maximum 18 adults.

Fee: $12 (plus HST) per person

 

Spring has arrived and the flowers are beginning to bloom! Join us to explore the wonderous world of spring wildflowers. In-classroom learning will focus on foundational botany and an introduction to the plant families we might encounter during the springtime. Visiting Arboretum sites like Victoria Woods, Wild Goose Woods, and the close to the public Nature Reserve, participants will be able to test their new knowledge with hands-on identification practice. Going “beyond the field guide” we will also explore the ecology and history of these spring-time blooms. This workshop is perfect for those looking to dive into the world of spring wildflowers and develop their field identification skills. A hand lens and wildflower field guide is recommended but not required. Registrants in attendance will receive a copy of our Spring Woodland Wildflower booklet.

*Maximum 18 adults.

Fee: $98 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of April 26, 2025. After April 26 the fee is $108 plus HST.

 

 

Spring is in the air—and so are the birds! This is the perfect time to get outside and spot migrating birds as they pass through in their vibrant plumage, filling the air with song. Join us for a guided birdwatching hike through The Arboretum, where we’ll explore a variety of habitats in search of both resident and migrating species. Whether you're an experienced birder or just getting started, this hike is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills and experience the magic of spring. Binoculars will be provided.

*Maximum 15 adults. 

Fee: $12 (plus HST) per person, per day.

 

 

Join Artist Candice Leyland for an inspiring and immersive plein air watercolour class, where The Arboretum becomes your studio! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this class offers a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of the outdoors with vibrant watercolours.

What to Expect:

• Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced artist who will guide you through techniques and tips for painting en plein air.
• Beautiful Locations: Explore picturesque landscapes and let the natural surroundings inspire your creativity.
• Hands-On Practice: Enjoy plenty of painting time with personalized feedback to help you improve your skills.
• All Levels Welcome: Tailored instruction to suit all skill levels, from beginners to advanced artists.

Don't miss this chance to enhance your artistic journey and connect with fellow art enthusiasts in a beautiful outdoor setting. Reserve your spot today and let your creativity flow!

Registrants must be age 14+.

Supplies:
Bring what you have that is easy to carry. Pan Watercolours are best, but we can make anything work.

• Watercolour Paints: A set of professional-grade watercolours in tubes or pans. Recommended colors include:
  • Hansa Yellow or Cadmium Yellow Light
  • Ultramarine Blue
  • Phthalo Blue
  • Cadmium Red Light
  • Alizarin Crimson
  • Viridian or Phthalo Green
  • Burnt Sienna
  • Burnt Umber
• Watercolour Brushes: A variety of brushes, such as:
  • Round brushes (#12 or 14, #6 or 8)
  • Flat brushes (#14)
• Watercolour Paper: High-quality, 140 lb. paper (9” x 12” or larger).
• Palette: A palette with a large mixing area (8x10 inches or larger).
• Water Containers: Jars with lids for clean and dirty water.
• Paper Towels or Cloths: For blotting and cleaning brushes.
• Pencil and Eraser: For sketching your composition.
• Portable Easel: (optional) A portable easel that can be adjusted for horizontal painting. An easel is not required. A board and a folding chair or a picnic blanket is a great, simple option.

Optional Supplies:

• Portable Chair: For comfort while painting.
• Hat and Sunscreen: To protect yourself from the sun.
• Bug Spray: To keep insects at bay.
• Backpack or Tote Bag: To carry all your supplies

Fee: $65 (plus HST) per person if you register before the early bird deadline of May 16, 2025. After that date the fee is $75 (plus HST) per person.

The Arboretum is home to thousands of insect species, each playing a vital role in the rich biodiversity of this space. Getting to know these fascinating creatures might seem daunting, but don’t worry—we’re here to help! Join our naturalists for a guided hike through The Arboretum as we search for butterflies, dragonflies, and other incredible insects. Along the way, we’ll explore identification tips, natural history, and the important roles these tiny creatures play in our world. Nets (and net training!) will be provided.

*Maximum 20 adults. 

Fee: $12 (plus HST) per person, per day.

 

 

Have a kid that is curious about nature and loves to draw? Join Arboretum Naturalist Christa Wise for a family nature journaling hike! We will teach the fundamentals of how to create and keep a nature journal with activities tailored to kids. Each hike will cover a different theme, so repeat hikers are always welcome! All you need for these hikes is a sketchbook and something to write with – but feel free to bring your preferred supplies. Kids must sign up with at least one adult for this hike.

The following is a list of topics for each program:

• July - Forests: Exploring all that the forest has to offer
• August - Fields: Exploring meadow habitats and their diversity

*Maximum 18 people. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by a adult who is also registered for the hike.

Fee: $12 (plus HST) per person

 

 

Neither great trees nor a carpet of bloom, the often overlooked but ecologically important shrubs and vines in our landscape will be our focus. Fresh specimens and an easy to use key for shrubs will be used. We will be outdoors for half of the day discovering southern Ontario's native and naturalized shrubs at The Arboretum. Bring a magnifying glass. Maximum 16 adults.

Fee: $90.00 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of September 3. If you register after September 3 the fee is $100 (plus HST). Note: If we don't have enough registrations by the early bird deadline the course may be cancelled.

This program is offered to specifc groups. If you would like more information please contact us.
Fee: FREE!
This online series is catered to University of Guelph international students and other community members new to Canada. New to the area? Come with us to explore The Arboretum and learn about what you can find in nature throughout the winter, spring, summer, and fall!
Visit the Nature Throughout the Seasons for International Students and New Canadians Series program page to learn more and register for upcoming dates. Please note that at this time this program is being offered to a special group instead of as a public program. If you are part of a group that is interested, please contact us for further information.