Let your mind grow

Course Calendar — May to september, 2016

RBG Experiences

GardeninG Health & Wellness Green Living BotaniCal arts & Crafts nature Lovers Hiking Canoeing SpeciaL eventS learn by doing! Sustainable Living Family environmental education

eduCation Mission: education at royal Botanical Gardens encourages environmental stewardship by providing meaningful and diverse learning experiences that connect people with the wild and cultivated plant world and help them to understand the crucial role that plants play in sustaining and enhancing our lives and the environment.

ContaCt us:

1-800-694-4769; 905-527-1158, ext. 270

rBG is committed to providing exceptional and accessible service to our visitors — our programs are designed to be inclusive. please contact our program coordinator at 905-527-1158, ext. 510 to discuss specific program requirements, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

royal Botanical Gardens is dedicated to offering lifelong learning opportunities that relate to our mandate, including programs that help people move towards a greener lifestyle.

Certificate ProgramsWatch each issue of our program calendar for our certificate logo, highlighting programs or workshops that include a certificate of attendance upon completion. Use the certificate for your own

enjoyment, for continuing education or to add to a résume when seeking employment.

contentsEducation Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Master Your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Into the Wild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Arts in the Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Health and Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Taste of the Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Kids and Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Membership registration form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Policies / program registration form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Plant Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Herbarium Brain Teaser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13From the Archives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Photo Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Events at the Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

2016 suMMer fun —

day CaMPs for kids ages

3 to 13

Get outdoors and explore the “wild side”of RBG with nature hikes, games, crafts, summer canoeing, camp-outs and more! Summer camps include half-day programs for ages 3 and 4, full-day programs for 4- to 13-year-olds, and Environmental Leadership Development Program for teens ages 13 to 17 . Themes vary each week . Extended care available .

Information and online registration: www.rbg.ca or call 905-527-1158, ext. 270 or 276

RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016 3

sPrinG is here and garden centres and nurseries are buzzing with busy gardeners browsing through a vast array of beautiful plants, and itching to get their hands in the soil. The one thing you might notice though, is that these places aren’t buzzing with the same number of bees they used to. Nor are our yards, parks and protected areas. Sadly, our annual garden plant passion appears to be one of a number of culprits responsible for this decline.

Scientists around the world agree that a particular group of insecticides is playing a huge role in bee losses. Neonicotinoids are a group of systemic neurological-system toxins created about 25 years ago and increasingly used in pest control since the mid-1990s. Unlike contact pesticides, which remain on the surface of treated plants, systemic poisons are absorbed through the roots and leaves and transported throughout all its parts, where they will affect any insect who feeds on any part of the plant, including pollen, fruit/seed and nectar. In order to keep pests at bay, neonicotinoids may be applied as a coating on seed, or be sprayed on the plant, or applied/injected into the soil.

Along with their neurotoxic properties, neonicotinoids persist in the soil, taking years, even decades, to degrade (and in some cases breaking down into compounds that are also toxic to bees). These chemicals also persist in compost that has been made from remains of plants that have been previously treated; some early testing of home compost has found levels far beyond those found in agricultural soil. The water-soluble nature of neonics helps them run-off into local watercourses where they are known to impact aquatic insects. In chemical testing of our water in Cootes Paradise, imidacloprid, the most widely used insecticide in the world and one of several neonicotinoids used in growing crops Ontario, was found throughout the marsh.

Emerging research from around the world has implicated neonicotinoids in a number of biodiversity and health issues, with many scientists referring to this group as a far greater threat to the environment than DDT. There is moratorium on the use of treated seed in the European Union, and in June of 2015, Province of Ontario released new legislation rolling back this use as well.

This legislation regulates only the amount of treated corn and soybean seed grown in Ontario; it doesn’t

impact other uses, including their role in horticulture and floriculture. Perfection is the goal in growing flowers for both, and neonics have become a widely used tool to help producers get pristine plants to market. Friends of the Earth conducted research in 2014 that showed over half of the plants randomly tested at various retailers across Canada and the U.S. had been treated with neonics. Even plants specifically labelled as “bee-friendly” were contaminated. Annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees may all be treated, with suggested application rates for nursery plants being at far greater concentrations than those approved for agricultural use.

here’s how to bee friendly: The simplest way to control what’s in your yard is to buy organic seed and grow your own plants, or swap cuttings and divides with friends who garden organically. Seedy Saturday and RBG’s Native Plant Sale are great places to shop, but make sure to always ask suppliers (and landscapers if they are making choices for you) if they or their wholesalers use these chemicals*, right up the value chain. If you care about pollinators and they don’t, then ask them to change and consider taking your business to those who care. If you buy from large retailers, Friends of the Earth has a webpage summarizing what large chains are or aren’t doing about neonicotinoids http://foecanada.org/en/retailer-actions-on-neonicotinoids/, as well as suggestions for other actions gardeners can take to increase awareness and concern about this environmental threat.

referenceS:Jeschke p, nauen r “neonicotinoids-from zero to hero in insecticide chemistry.” Pest Management Science, 2008 64: 1084-1098.Goulson, dave. “an overview of the environmental risks posed by neonicotinoid insecticides.” Journal of Applied Ecology 2013, 50: 977–987.www.ontario.ca/page/pollinator-healthwww.tfsp.info/assets/Wia_2015.pdffoecanada.org/en/2014/06/gardeners-beware-2014/www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/are-neonicotinoids-Killing-Bees_Xerces-Society1.pdf

*nOte: there are several chemicals in this group, and the name “neonicotinoid” likely won’t appear on products. Here’s what to ask: Have any of the following neonicotinoid chemicals been applied to the plants you sell at any point during the plants’ lives: imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, thiacloprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, and/or acetamiprid?E

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Barbara McKeanHead of Education

Buyer Bee-aware!

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Master your Garden

all courses require pre-registration. Book your sPot today!

CoMinG this fallSeasonal Arrangement Workshops:• Autumn Splendour• HolidAy mAgic

StArting A VegetABle gArden7 to 9 p .m . at RBG Centre . Fee: $30 per class (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 15.

Join Nancy Lee-Colibaba in RBG’s Veggie Village. Get your hands dirty and learn the fundamental skills to grow your own produce at home. It doesn’t get any more local than your own backyard!

3. mAintenAnce For HeAltHy VegetABleS Wednesday, July 6 . PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 27.

4. HArVeSting And Autumn Soil SteWArdSHip Wednesday, September 14 . PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 4.

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pArking At tHe gArdenS parking is free at rBg centre. parking fees apply at the Arboretum, garden areas and trailheads ($1–3/hour). rBg members park for free with their rBg parking pass.

Member appreciation eventsFREE To MEMBERS onLY . Members are allowed to bring one guest free of charge . “Plus” members can bring one additional guest beyond the guest allocation noted in their Plus Membership .RSVP to Danielle, ddaigle@rbg .ca 905-527-1158, ext . 514

HiStory oF rBg’S rock gArden on Burlington HeigHtSThursday, May 26;7 to 8:30 p .m . at Rock Garden .

Since opening in 1932 Rock Garden has undergone decades of change, culminating in the 2013–2016 rejuvenation project. The area also has a fascinating history, with stories stretching back to the last ice age, as important as the arrival of the railroads and the construction of Hamilton itself, and as dramatic as the War of 1812! Join RBG’s Dr. David Galbraith for an evening exploring the history of this six-acre horticultural gem.

cHAllengeS And opportunitieS to conSerVe uniQue plAnt SpecieSSaturday, September 10; 2 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .

A modern-day hunter of almost extinct plants, William (Bill) McNamara, executive director of Quarryhill Botanical Gardens, has ventured each fall for the past 27 years into the mountains of China, India, Japan, Nepal, and Myanmar. Bill has created an Asian forest at Quarryhill, to preserve these plants and distribute seeds to other facilities including Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Windsor Great Park, Howick Arboretum, and others. Bill has prepared a pictorial adventure geared to adults about his work with local botanists and their mutual goals in research and conservation.William mcnamara

dr. david galbraith

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memBer BeneFitS RBG members receive a 10% discount off the listed program fee . Single members receive one discounted spot per program . Dual and Dual-Plus members receive up to four discounted spots per program .

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into the Wild

Nature Study: adult educatioN SerieSA series of programs to encourage adult learners. Be inspired by a group of like-minded peers, use the opportunity to get outdoors, and spark a new interest or reinforce a passion for all things nature!

Spring WildFloWer WAlkSSaturday, May 7 or 14; 9:30 a .m .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off) (2 .5 to 3 .5-hour walks)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY APRIL 28 OR MAY 4.

Follow the green wave of spring’s progression and compare the flora of various habitats in our area with RBG’s Dr. Jim Pringle. Dress for the weather and be ready for rough terrain. Walks are geared for intermediate hiking levels.may 7: Hendrie Valley (Meet at Cherry Hill Gate)may 14: North Shore (meet at the Nature Centre)

Summer tree idSunday, May 29; oR August 28; 1 to 4:30 pm at the nature Centre .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off) Fee: $40 (Members 10% off) including tree manual and hand lensMAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 19 OR AUGUST 18.

Hike RBG’s trails and learn to identify trees in early or late summer that grow in our area. Nadia Cavallin, field botanist at RBG, focuses on the flowers, characteristics of the leaf shapes and how these leaves are arranged. Indoors we learn the features that botanist use to identify trees, then we go outside to learn how to use botanical keys to identify trees. Dress for the weather. Tree manual and hand lens are needed.

HoW to AttrAct mASon BeeS: A BeneFiciAl pollinAtor Saturday, June 4: 2 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $35 (Members 10% discount)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 26.

Food pollination depends on a variety of bees including our native mason bees. The female mason bee lays her eggs with pollen balls in wood cavities or hollow stems, packing mud like brick masons between each egg cell, hence the name. Want to attract mason bees to your backyard by improving their habitat? Join Karin to learn more about mason bees, build a simple bee house and explore the gardens for these bees.

key to WildFloWerSSunday, June 26; 1 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off) Fee: $40 (Members 10% off) including tree manual and hand lensMAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 16.

Enjoy spring and join Dr. Jim Pringle, plant taxonomist, and Nadia Cavallin, herbarium curator and field botanist, to learn skills to identify the flowers that have blossomed. With your manual and hand lens, you will have a new appreciation of what is around you.

riSky BuSineSS Sunday, July 10; 2 to 4 p .m . at the nature Centre .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY JULY 1.

Plants provide food and shelter to birds, animals and insects but some of these plants are risky to humans. Nadia Cavallin, herbarium curator and field botanist, outlines what plants to watch out for and avoid while hiking. Discover the good and the bad in the plants around us.

tHe return oF tHe BAld eAgleSunday, August 21; 2 to 4 p .m . at the nature Centre .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 25. PRE-REGISTER BY AUGUST 11.

Come out and learn more about the eagles at Cootes. Sarah Richer, RBG’s species at risk biologist, provides detailed information on the history of eagles in our area, and the challenges involved with restoring their population. Hear a brief presentation of RBG’s efforts to assist the eagles’ re-establishment, and then hike and hopefully catch a glimpse of this magnificent bird.

gruB’n outYear-round daily departures; 2 .5-hour toursYou choose date and time .Fee: $50/personPRE-REGISTER 10 DAYS IN ADVANCE

Journey through our property and enjoy a delicious meal! This guided hike gives you an in-depth look at the life, beauty and serenity of the wilderness. Explore Hendrie Valley or the north shore of Cootes Paradise, with groups of 4 minimum to 20 people maximum. Visit www.rbg.ca/hike for full details.

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get BAck to nAture WAlkSFree every Sunday . Check www .rbg .ca/hike for locations and details .

introduction to tHe World oF FernSSunday, August 14; 1 to 4 pm at RBG Centre .Fee: $15 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY AUGUST 4.Join RBG’s herbarium and field botany staff to learn what makes ferns so unique! Walk in the native garden and woodland garden to explore the many ferns on-site, and learn to ID them yourself using a simple fern manual.

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Paddling in Paradise (www.rbg.ca/paddle)Meet at the nature Centre .Fee: $35/person/tour (Members 10% off)Saturday, May 28; 7 a .m .Tuesday May 31; 6 p .m .Saturday, June 11; 7 a .m .Tuesday, June 14; 6 p .m .Saturday, June 25; 7 a .m .Tuesday, June 28; 6 p .m .Saturday, July 9; 7 a .m .Saturday, July 16; 7:30 p .m .Saturday, July 23; 7 a .m .MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER 5 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF EACH DATE.

Come explore Cootes Paradise by canoe to get a glimpse of the astounding life that depends on the health of the marsh for its survival. Book either the morning (7 to 9:30 a.m.), evening (6 to 8:30 p.m.) or moonlight (7:30 to 10 p.m.) guided tour to view wetland plants and wildlife, and hear about some of our restoration efforts that help keep Cootes a Paradise. We supply the canoes, paddles and lifejackets. You bring your camera and binoculars. Canoes have single bench seats only so bring pads to sit on for extra comfort. Water bottles and pocket snacks also recommended. PLEASE NOTE: Arrive 15 minutes early and prepare to paddle rain or shine. In the event of high winds or threatening weather please call the Weather Update Line at ext. 404.

Fit experience If you wish to Paddle in Paradise but these dates conflict with your schedule, consider booking an upscale three-hour tour for you and your friends/

family. Contact Jackson at 905-527-1158, ext, 542 or JHudecki@rbg.ca to find out how! Fee: $65/person . Must commit to 4 or more people and provide 2 weeks’ notice .

leArn to cAnoeSaturday and Sunday, June 18, 19; 9 a .m . to noon at the nature Centre .Fee: $70 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 12. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 8.

What is the bow and where is the stern? Going straight is easy but how do I turn? Join us for two half-days of canoeing as our ORCKA-certified instructors teach safety, techniques and much more. Master the quintessentially Canadian J-stroke. Before you know it, you will be a pro.

Enjoy a guided tour of the feature garden and plant collection in the tranquil evening. Hors d’oeuvres and relaxing music enhance the evening. One drink included with ticket; additional beer and wine available for purchase.

if you are registered for an outdoor program and the weather looks threatening, please check our program update line, 905-527-1158, ext. 404. Weather updates are posted one to two hours before program start time.

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moonligHt SerieSFee: $40 per program (Members 10% off)

mAgnoliAS By moonligHtSaturday, May 7; 7 to 9 p .m . at the Arboretum .MAXIMUM 50. PRE-REGISTER BY APRIL 29.

Our magnolia collection is outstanding with many different varieties including Ontario’s native magnolia, Cucumber-Tree (Magnolia acuminate), an endangered species found wild in only a few locations in the Carolinian Zone. Enjoy relaxing live music by Fiona McCairley and friend.

moonligHt And lilAcSSaturday, May 28; 7:30 to 9:30 p .m . at the Arboretum .MAXIMUM 50. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 18.

The Lilac Dell exhibits over 600 species and cultivars of common lilacs, and is RBG’s spring attraction. Join Alex Henderson, curator of collections, for an exclusive tour of the lilac collection. Musician for the evening is Michael Maquire.

iriS in tHe moonligHtSaturday June 11; 7:30 to 9:30 p .m . at Laking Garden .MAXIMUM 50. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 1.

RBG’s Iris collection is a kaleidoscope of colour. Alex Henderson, curator of collections, enlightens you on a tour of our Iris collection. Music for the evening is by members of the Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

moonlit roSeSSaturday, July 9; 8 to 10 p .m . at Hendrie Park .MAXIMUM 50. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 30.

What do roses symbolize for you? Have they changed the course of history in your own life? Roses, like people really do have a story to tell. Our expert guest takes you on a magical evening tour of Centennial Rose Garden. Musician for the evening is Fiona McCairley and friend.

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Scent SenSitiVitieS — Visit our gardens for some magnificent scents. However, when attending programs kindly refrain from wearing scented products as some individuals are very sensitive to them.

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BotAnicAl illuStrAtionSession1: Saturdays, September 10, 17 and 24; 1 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .Session 2: Saturdays, october 29, november 5 to 12; 1 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $110/session (Members 10% off) MAXIMUM 15. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 7.

pAinting FAll lAndScApeSWednesdays, September 21 to november 9; 1 to 3:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $150 (Members 10% off) MAXIMUM 15. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 11.

Beginning WAtercolourThursdays, September 22 to november 10; 9:30 a .m . to noon at RBG Centre .Fee: $150 (Members 10% off) MAXIMUM 15. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 12.

AdVAnced BotAnicAl WAtercolourFridays, September 23 to november 11; 9:30 a .m . to noon at RBG Centre .Fee: $150 (Members 10% off) MAXIMUM 15. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 13.

identiFicAtion WorkSHopSSpring HAWtHorn identiFicAtionThursday and Friday, June 2 and 3;9:30 a .m . to 4:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $275 (RBG members: $250; Students: $200)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 24.

This workshop places the Ontario species of Crataegus in the context of the genus as a whole, and suggests what features are needed to be able to make an identification using the just-published Flora North America (Phipps 2015). Instructors: Timothy Dickinson, senior curator emeritus, Royal Ontario Museum Green Plant Herbarium, and Nadia Talent, research associate, Royal Ontario Museum Green Plant Herbarium.

Spider identiFicAtion WorkSHopSaturday, July 9; 9 a .m . to 12 p .m . at the nature Centre .Fee: $60 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 15. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 30.

John Reaume focuses on spider identification giving you a close-up view in his presentation to outline spider anatomy and ID features. The remainder of the time is outdoors, searching for spiders to attempt to identify these amazing creatures in the field. Bring magnifying glasses, binoculars, digital cameras capable of macro photography or even small glass jars to help with ID in the field.

FernS And AllieSThursday and Friday, August 11 and 12;9:30 a .m . to 4:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $275 (RBG members: $250; Students: $200)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY AUGUST 3.

Join us for an intensive two-day, hands-on workshop with Dr. Jim Pringle and Nadia Cavallin. Participants learn about the unique life cycles of ferns and are introduced to their unique botanical morphology and terminology in a classroom and during field visits to nearby natural areas. Be prepared to go out in all weather conditions. Bring along your hand lenses, field guides or botanical keys, and even your mystery specimens! Bring your lunch.

ASterS And goldenrodSThursday and Friday, September 15 and 16; 9:30 a .m . to 4:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $275 (RBG members: $250; Students: $200)MAXIMUM 20.PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 7.

Join us for an intensive two-day, hands-on workshop with Dr. Jim Pringle and Nadia Cavallin. The unique botanical morphology and associated terminology specific to the aster and goldenrod groups are introduced and illustrated in a classroom setting and during field visits to RBG’s nature sanctuaries. Be prepared to go out in all weather conditions. Bring along your hand lenses, field guides or botanical keys and even your mystery specimens! Bring your lunch.

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health and Wellness

yogA At tHe gArdenSTuesdays, Tuesdays, July 12 to August 30, September 13, 20; 5:15 to 6:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $110 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY JULY 2.

Relax your mind and body with Hatha Yoga. Sandee Ewasiuk focuses on lengthening the spine, extending and opening the body, and quieting the mind through stretching poses, breathing and grounding exercises. Suitable for all levels and beginners are welcome. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring a yoga mat. 10-week session.

yogA FundAmentAlS: rooted in trAditionThursdays, July 14 to August 25, September 8 to 22; 5:30 to 7 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $110 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY JULY 4.

Taught in a traditional style, Chelsea Curran covers the fundamentals of yoga — Pranayama (proper breathing), Asana (poses) and an exploration of habitual behaviours that hold us back from stress-free living and optimal health. Beginners to yoga and intermediate practitioners welcome. Lengthening and strengthening your body with a flow from one pose to another. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring a yoga mat. 10-week session.

coming tHiS FAlldrumming: A uniVerSAl expreSSionMondays, September 26, october 3, 17, to november 21; 7 to 8:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $100 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 25. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 16.

24 moVement yAng Style tAi cHi FormWednesdays, September 28 to november 30; 10:30 to noon at RBG Centre .Fee: $110 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 18

tHerApeutic Qi gong preScription exerciSeSWednesdays, September 28 to november 30; 1 to 2:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $110 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 18.

HorticulturAl tHerApy BASic trAiningThursday and Friday, May 26 and 27; 9 to 4 p .m . at Greenwood Court90 Greenwood Drive, Stratford, onFee: $250 (refreshments and workshop materials)PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 16.

This two-day training session covers special populations, writing proposals, plants, seasonal programs, project ideas, and more. A certification of attendance is provided upon completion. See www.rbg.ca/ horticulturaltherapy for details and online registration.

Scent SenSitiVitieS — Visit our gardens for some magnificent scents. However, when attending programs kindly refrain from wearing scented products as some individuals are very sensitive to them.

RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016 9

MeMBershiP CateGories / annual fee(HSt included in list price)

single (one designated individual) $80

single Plus (plus one guest per visit) $115

*family–dual (two designated individuals and all children under 18 years of age) $120

*family–dual Plus (plus two guests per visit) $155

senior (one designated individual) $60

senior Plus (plus one guest per visit) $90

*senior–dual (two designated individuals and all children under 18 years of age) $95

*senior–dual Plus (plus two guests per visit) $125

Paradise Found (member magazine subscription) $30

additional Guest Pass (on top of any plus membership) $35

Membership total: $PayMent

enclosed cheque for full amount payable to royal Botanical Gardens

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Questions? visit us online at www.rbg.ca or call

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Mail this completed form to: royal Botanical Gardens, Membership, p.O. Box 399, Hamilton, On L8n 3H8

Become a member! (dual* membership required for camp discounts.)

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introduction to HerBAl medicineSaturday, May 28; 10 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $60 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 18.

In this day-long program on herbal medicine, Elizabeth Boyd, registered herbalist, takes you through uses of common plants and how to easily prepare these remedies at home for your own health. The day also includes an herbal walk and making a tincture to use at home. Please bring your lunch.

medicinAl HerBS plAnt WAlkSaturday, June 18, 1:30 to 3:30 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $20 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 20. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 10.

All those weeds growing in your backyard might be just what you need for medicine! Join Elizabeth Boyd, registered herbalist, as she takes you for a 2-hour walk through RBG explaining which plants can be used for ordinary ailments. Participants review common weeds and tour RBG’s Medicinal Garden. Elizabeth explains what part of plants to use and how to prepare them so you can start making your own healing mixtures.

intoxiCatinG Plants seriescome For A drAmThursday, September 29; 8 to 10 p .m . at RBG Centre .Fee: $55 (Members 10% off)MAXIMUM 30. PRE-REGISTER BY SEPTEMBER 19.

The Scots have been making whiskey since the 15th century and every region in Scotland does it a little different. Come out and learn the process of creating a good scotch and how it gets it’s distinct flavor and character. Peter Rhind takes you on a wonderful adventure by tasting various whiskeys from different regions of Scotland. Must be 19 years old or older.

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reGistrationAdvance enrollment is required for all events with a registration fee. Participants may register online, in person, by fax, mail or by telephone. To register, please fill out the registration form in this catalogue or print a copy from our website and send it to: Course Registrations, Royal Botanical Gardens, P.O. Box 399, Hamilton, ON L8N 3H8; OR fax it to 905-577-0375.

Full payment must accompany each registration. To register by phone, please call 905-527-1158, ext. 270 (open Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Telephone or fax registrations require payment by VISA, American Express or MasterCard. RBG reserves the right to cancel any event if the minimum number of registrants is not reached by registration deadline. Registrations may be accepted after the registration deadline provided the minimum registration number has already been reached. Non-member (public) fee applies to all after registration deadline.

MeMBershiPRBG members receive a 10% discount on course fees, provided that registrations are received on or before the registration deadline. The family membership category enables children to become active participants in all RBG family programs. Please visit our website at www.rbg.ca for membership information, or fill out the form on the next page.

CanCellation, refunds and reCeiPtsUp to the registration deadline, all cancellations by registrants are subject to a 25 per cent cancellation fee. No other refunds of any kind are made after the registration deadline. Should RBG cancel a program, registrants will be notified by telephone and refunds issued. It is vital that you supply phone numbers where we can reach you both daytime and in the evening or on weekends, directly or by recorded message. We will not accept responsibility for inconvenience caused to those we cannot contact, whatever the reason.

Weather cancellations: call the program update line at ext. 404.Most of our programs are offered rain or shine. In the event of severe weather some courses, especially outdoor workshops and guided walks, may be postponed or cancelled. If you are unsure about conditions on the day of your program, please call our Program Update Line at ext. 404. A message will be posted there one to two hours before the program is due to start. It is your responsibility to verify that your program is being offered; though we try, we are not always able to reach participants.

liaBilityRBG assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to property, or for personal injury or mishap; all activities are at the risk of the participant. For more information visit www.rbg.ca

Arboretum and Nature Interpretive Centre

Exit York Road to Plains Road

Exit Waterdown Road

Exit Fairview/Plains Road25 minutes fro

m BRANTFORD

45 minutes from TORONTO45 minutes from KITCHENER/WATERLOO

45 minutes from NIAGARA and bridge to U.S.A

fOr Office USe OnLy Please send completed forms to:Course Registrations, Royal Botanical Gardens

P.O. Box 399, Hamilton, ON L8N 3H8 or fax to 905-577-0375

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MeMBer nOn-MeMBer (Member’s fee must be received by registration deadline. After deadline, non-member fee applies.)

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register for courses & workshops below or at rbg.ca

Learning @ tHe GardenS

RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016 11

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kids and families

GardeninG ProGraMs for kidsEach child is given a garden plot to plant, cultivate and harvest. Activities include cooking, nature hikes, games, crafts and basic gardening techniques. Plants, tools and supplies are provided. At RBG Centre/ Hendrie Park.

cockle-SHellS And SilVerBellS (3- to 5-year olds with their parents/caregivers)SESSIon onE: Wednesdays, May 18 to June 22; 9:30 to 11:30 a .m . oR 6 to 8 p .m . SESSIon TWo: Wednesdays, July 6 to August 10; 9:30 to 11:30 a .m . oR 6 to 8 p .m .Fee: $90/Session or $150/both sessions (Members 10% off) 6-week program

SoW & groW (5 to 7-year-olds)SESSIon onE: Saturdays, May 14, 28, to June 25; 2 to 4 pm .SESSIon TWo: Thursdays, July 7 to August 10; 6 to 8 p .m . Fee: $90/Session or $150/both sessions (Members 10% off) 6-week program

Junior gArdener’S cluB (8 to 13-year-olds)Saturday, May 7, 14, 28 to July 23, August 6, 13; 9:30 a .m . to noon . Fee: $150 (Members 10% off) 12-week program

Find out how families Win!

For details and downloads,

visit: www.rbg.ca/

walkingintonature

Walking into Nature

Walking into Nature

Families

Families

Walking into Nature

Families

FAmily Fun dAySFees: Child (4 to 12 years) $8, child (3 and under) Free, Adult $12, (Members 10% off)

turtle WAlkSaturday, May 14; 2 to 4 p .m . at RBG Centre/Grindstone Creek .MAXIMUM 40. PRE-REGISTER BY MAY 4.

See and experience reptiles and amphibians out in the wild! Join our guide and hike the trails to try spotting turtles warming in the sun, hear a frog chorus, watch tadpoles and so much more. Learn about the life cycle, feeding habits, reproduction and hazards turtles encounter.

Summer SolSticeSaturday, June 18: 7:30 to 9:30 p .m . at the nature Centre .MAXIMUM 30 FAMILIES. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 8.

Celebrate Summer Solstice with us. Solstice is from the Latin word solstitium, meaning sun stand still, and at this time of year that is what the sun seems to be doing, just hanging in the sky without moving. Let’s explore, hike, celebrate around a bonfire and enjoy the start of summer.

FireFlieS in tHe gArdenSaturday, July 9; 8 to 10 p .m . at the nature Centre .MAXIMUM 30. PRE-REGISTER BY JUNE 30.

Nothing announces summer like a field full of fireflies. Bring the family to experience a magical evening while you learn about this luminous beetle often called lighting bugs. Felicia Radassao, terrestrial ecologist, sheds a little light on the secret lives of fireflies. Wear closed toe shoes, bring a reuseable water bottle and a flashlight.

An encHAnted eVeningSaturday, August 6; 7 to 9 p .m . at RBG Centre . MAXIMUM 30 FAMILIES. PRE-REGISTER BY JULY 28.

Join us for an enchanted evening with fairy stories, fairy folklore, and a candle-lit walk. “If your eyes are quick and light is just right … you may see the fairies about to take flight.” This just may happen during the candlelit walk — don’t miss the magic.

SPONSORS OF RBG’S GREEN ANGELS FUND IN SUPPORT OF FREE EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN IN FINANCIAL NEED

if you are registered for an outdoor program and the weather looks threatening, please check our program update line, 905-527-1158, ext. 404. Weather updates are posted one to two hours before program start time.

AdVenture cHAllenge courSeSaturdays, July 16 oR october 15; 9:30 a .m . and 11:30 a .m . at the Arboretum .Entry Fee (includes food ticket)Adult: $35Child (4 to 12 years old): $25Child (3 years and under): FreeChildren under 8 years must be accompanied by an adult .PRE-REGISTER BY JULY 6 OR OCTOBER 5.

The PANORAMA @ RBG Adventure Challenge Course is a wild and fun obstacle course designed to engage the entire family in an exciting and active experience combining teamwork, family strength and participation. Rally your team and challenge your friends to this test of brain and brawn. Climb, leap, swing, crawl, think, create, and strategize your way through this multi-kilometre obstacle course. The course weaves its way through fields and forests, up and down hills and valleys, and over the terrain of RBG’s Arboretum.www.rbg.ca/adventure

12 RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016

1. the iconic conifer, bearing rBG’s first-ever accession number (30001*a), stands adjacent to the entrance drive of rock Garden. this accession was purchased from Lorne park nursery in 1930. this tree is also known as “sugi” in its native country of Japan and is commonly planted near shines and temples since it is the national tree of Japan. this species features beautiful reddish-brown bark and spirally arranged needles which turn a coppery hue in winter. Because the wood is highly rot resistant and easily worked, this is one of the most economically important timber species in Japan.

2. another iconic conifer, bearing rBG’s second-ever accession number (30002*a), stands at the bottom of rock Garden’s bowl, and was also purchased from Lorne park nursery in 1930. it has since grown to an impressive size. this species is a southeastern USa native and is one of only a few deciduous coniferous species. it features light brown to gray bark and sometimes exfoliates in long strips. this species may be best known for the woody “knees” that sometimes project above the soil line which are called pneumatophores.

Unfortunately, this accession does not feature this unique characteristic.

3. rBG’s fourth-ever accession (30004*a) grew near the water features at the bottom of the bowl and during the renovation was relocated to a new location below Garden House. it is said that this species, and maybe even this particular accession, was a favourite of dr. Leslie Laking, rBG’s longest-running director. this species is a deciduous, colonizing shrub which features palmately compound leaves and panicles of white tubular flowers which are also a favourite for pollinators during its summer bloom.

4. another early accession (30022*a) is represented along the upper rim at the south end of the new visitor centre. this species is iconic for the simple fact that it is a living fossil and all of its close relatives are extinct. this species features fan shaped leaves, distinct branching patterns and perfect gold autumn colours. it is tolerant of a wide range of soils, urban environments and is free of pests and diseases, some of the reasons for it being widely cultivated today.

rock Garden Staples By Jon L. peter, curator and Manager of plant documentation

When you think of rock Garden, some iconic specimen trees come to mind, many of which were planted in the initial years of development of the rock Garden landscape. public gardens around the world give plants unique number/letter combinations that are referred to as accession numbers. these numbers stay with the plants indefinitely and with these accession numbers, we can track the plants provenance (origins), location, growth and/or decline along with a multitude of other specifics about each individual plant. these iconic specimens are also some of our oldest accessions ever recorded at rBG. can you guess the species and match the descriptions to the images? anSWerS On paGe 14.

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RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016 13

clippingsClippings is your source for

quirky, ground-breaking news, stories and events

germinated at the Gardens

can you name the plant represented in this rBG herbarium specimen? it was collected on May 7, 1957 by aleksander tamsalu, rBG’s first and most prolific field botanist in terms of the number of specimens he contributed to the herbarium (a whopping 7,079 solo collected specimens and many more collected in collaboration with other naturalists). tamsalu divided the grounds at rBG into numbered sections, and this plant was collected in his area 29 which is the north-facing slope that descends from behind the tea house in Hendrie park down to Grindstone creek. that area is accessible via South Bridle trail and this mystery plant can still be found there in some numbers today.

this plant is one in the first wave of spring flowers to bloom, usually in early april. it persists as a tight rosette of basal leaves that turn a deep red colour in late autumn. Like many plants, this colour transformation occurs when chlorophyll (the molecule that plants use to harvest photons of light and turn them into chemical energy) is pulled back from the leaves, converted and stored in the roots for the dark months of winter. as the days get longer through March, chlorophyll is returned to the leaves, which flush green, signalling that it is soon time for this plant to flower. Like other spring flowers, this mystery species makes use of the fact that trees are still bare in

april and the forest canopy is wide open, letting in plenty of light for this diminutive plant to soak up.

flowering begins when the central flower bud elongates into a leafless stem called a “stipe” which is covered in tiny gland-tipped hairs. Before the stipe has reached its full height, the flowers begin to open, starting with the bottom-most flowers and progressing towards the top. although these plants are small, they can put on an impressive floral display — when the cluster of flowers is fully elongated, it can be up to 50 cm long with a minimum of 30 small, 5-petaled white flowers. this plant is tolerant of many soil types including acidic, alkaline and even serpentine soils which are characterized by high concentrations of heavy metals. for this reason, and its general attractiveness, this plant is often use in xeriscaping (gardening with a rocky substrate and low water). in the wild, you are most likely to find it on rocky slopes in the forest understory in cootes paradise, Hendrie valley, rock chapel and Berry tract.

if you think you can identify this specimen, send your answer to paradisefound@rbg.ca or Paradise Found, c/o editor, 680 plains road West, Burlington, On, L7t 4H4. the first correct answer wins bragging rights in the next issue of Paradise Found.

Sue Stephenson has a lovely patch of Chelone glabra (White Turtlehead) in her shade garden and correctly identified it as the specimen of our last teaser. Way to go Sue!

Herbarium Brain teaserBy ryan Godfrey, Botany intern

14 RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016

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a snapshot from royal Botanical Gardens’ archives

documents found in rBG’s archival collection come in many forms and help us to tell stories of how and why the Gardens has changed throughout the years. these postcards of rock Garden date as far back as the 1930s and are now depicted signs throughout the rejuvenated garden, and a special exhibit in the new Garden House. Many of the signs are placed in the original location where the postcard photos were taken.

Answers to plant quiz, p . 12

rock Garden postcards

1. B. Cryptomeria japonica – Japanese-Cedar2. D. Taxodium distichum – Bald-Cypress3. C. Aesculus parviflora – Bottlebrush Buckeye4. A. Ginkgo biloba – Maidenhair Tree

RBG ExpERiEncEs Summer 2016 15

keep ‘em coming: Give us your best shot … and we’ll show it to all our friends

Winning photos are published in a coming issue of Paradise Found.

CateGoriesFlorA: plant life is everywhere at RBG FAunA: please DO NOT DISTURB the wildlife FAmily: capture the joy of discovery and amazement

ConGratulations to:FlorA Winner: Ian YousemanRunners-up: Shawna Scale, Lois McNaught

FAunA Winner: Danielle Thorne Runners-up: Ian Youseman, John Benedict

FAmily Winner: Shawna ScaleRunners-up: Janet Plantinga, Krystal Kearney

the never-ending rBG photo contest

flora Winner ian youseman

fauna Winner danielle thorne

shawna scale

ian youseman

lois Mcnaught

krystal kearney

rules This contest is open to amateur photographers only. RBG staff and family members of staff are prohibited from entry. All entries become the property of RBG and may be used in future publications, including Paradise Found, the website and in RBG marketing materials. Whenever a photo is used for anything other than the contest, the photographer is notified. Please email to paradisefound@rbg.ca, subject title: photo contest. Winners and runners-up will be asked to supply high-resolution versions.

faMily Winner shawna scale Janet Plantinga

John Benedict

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luna – Grand opening Galathursday, May 19; 6 to 10 p.m.; Rock Garden Gala celebrating the grand opening of rock Garden. for details and tickets: www.rbg.ca/rock

Biodiversity CelebrationMay 21 and 22; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Arboretum there is no better place to celebrate the diversity of life than royal Botanical Gardens, canada’s Biodiversity Hotspot! Join us for two days of exploration and hands-on fun with local animals, plants, and ecosystems.

Moonlight seriesMay 7, 28, June 11, July 9See page 6.

history of rBG’s rock Gardenthursday, May 26; 7 to 8:30 p.m.; RBG centre See page 4.

Celebrate lilacs!May/June; Arboretumyour senses will be overwhelmed by the spectacle of 800 varieties of these scented shrubs. Stroll along the beautiful Lilac Walk and spread out a picnic blanket at the bottom of Lilac dell for total relaxation. Learn about everything in bloom at the discovery cart each day.

Celebrate iris and Peonies!Early June; Laking Gardentake in the mesmerizing colour combinations. explore the peony collection, perennial borders and the hosta walk.

Celebrate roses!June/July; Hendrie park enjoy rBG’s two acres of fragrant roses in bloom in colours ranging from pure white, cream, buff, yellows, apricots, oranges, pinks, corals and reds. activities for kids, garden tours and more.

art BloomsFriday to sunday, June 17 to 19; Hendrie parkcelebration of the new installations in the international Sculpture collection.

Garden MusiC niGhts6 to 8:30 p.m.; Hendrie park Country and rootstuesdays, June 28 to August 16red-hot Jazz and Cool Blues Wednesdays, June 15 to september 7rain or shine. visit www.rbg.ca for schedule updates, lineups and online ticket purchases.

the royal QuestJuly 9 and 10; Arboretumthe royal couple needs your help! Grab your map and embark on a quest of epic proportions. this quest is full of family-fun physical obstacles and problem-solving challenges created to test mental and physical skills. are you up for the challenge? the Quest is fun for all ages. children under 8 years must be accompanied by an adult.

the enchanted Garden July 30 to August 1; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Hendrie park calling all gnomes, fairies, pixies and sprites. Make your way to royal Botanical Gardens where a touch of magic awaits you ...

shakespeare at rock GardenAugust 10 to August 21; Rock GardenA Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s most famous comedy, fast asleep. Spurred on by their amorous and ambitious dreams, aspiring actors, lovers, and fairies meet in the woods of their sleeping minds in this highly physical adaptation of the classic play. presented by tottering Biped theatre.

Garden Clubs of ontario triennial flower showJune 15 and 16; rBG Centre

considered the best floral design exhibition in canada, the triennial Flower show, hosted by Garden clubs of ontario must not be missed. this year’s title Art through the Ages: a Floral Journey.

DAVID BRALEY & NANCY GORDON

ROCK GARDEN

GRAND OPENING

CELEBRATION

Spend an evening in the

Land of Luna —

a night celebrating Spring’s return to the new

David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden filled with local artists, food,

spirits, music, and magic.

Adult Event • Thursday, May 19from 6–10 p.m. from 6–10 p.m.

SAVE THE DATE Tickets on sale April 1 at rbg.ca