Beginners' Guide to Tree ID Course

Have you always wanted to grow your confidence in tree identification? Join RHS Garden Bridgewater Arborists Greg and Erik for the beginner’s guide to tree ID course.

This course is for beginners in tree identification, those who want to build confidence in their tree ID, or individuals looking to learn additional details from the RHS team and meet like-minded nature enthusiasts.

The course will focus on identifying native trees and the most commonly planted exotics in the UK. Our tree experts will guide you to ID trees through recognition of their leaves, bark and growth patterns at different stages in their lifecycle. Although this workshop is in the spring, the arborist team will provide detailss on changes expected in different speciesthroughout theh the seasons.

The course will begin in the Learning Studios, providing some of the theory behind tree identification, followed by time exploring the RHS Garden Bridgewater woodland, looking at different tree specimens, and putting theory into practice!

Tutors: 
Greg Douglas-Thorne has a background rooted in Arboricultural consultancy working for private and commercial clients, later migrating into an Arboriculturist role within the RHS. With a keen interest in urban forest management and a passion for advocating for the positive benefits offered by trees on environmental, social and economic levels

Erik Brady is an arboriculturist at RHS Bridgewater, with a professional background in traditional English woodland management. He has a strong interest in native ecology and climate-resilient planting, and is dedicated to increasing public understanding of tree identification and woodland stewardship.

Location and Arrival Information: The workshop will begin in the Learning Studios, situated within the Welcome Building

Catering: Please bring along a water bottle - refreshments are not provided at this workshop

For this workshop, you will need:

• To wear comfortable footwear suitable for strolling off the main pathways
• To bring a notebook and a pencil for capturing the details of the course, and
• To carry a camera to photograph the glorious trees of Bridgewater and their identifying features

Skill Level: Beginner - I am keen to learn and to develop my experience and confidence