CLASS IS FULL

Note: After the initial lecture, there will be 3 field classes at the Viles Arboretum in Augusta.

Students will learn how to identify and recognize common wildflowers of central Maine. During the lecture we will review the parts of the flower and their functions, learn how leaves and other features can aid in identification, and become acquainted with several of the important flowering plant families. Students will learn how to use a field guide (see note in Materials) to make identifications. During the field events we will practice identifying various wildflowers across three seasons and learn about their roles in the ecosystem and in human culture. Class size will be limited to 20 students. For the field events the class will be divided into two groups with a maximum of twelve in each.

Spring Wildflowers: Thursday May 29, choice of morning or afternoon. Rain date is May 30.

Summer Wildflowers: Choice of morning session of Tuesday July 1 or morning session of  Thursday July 3. Rain date TBD.

Early Fall Wildflowers: Tuesday September 2, choice of morning or afternoon session. Rain date Thursday September 4.

Please note: A $20.00 per person user fee will be collected at the classroom to cover all 3 field events at the arboretum.

MATERIALS: Students should purchase Wildflowers of New England by Ted Elliman and the New England Wildflower Society (Timber Press Field Guide, 2016), available through Amazon. A magnifying lens would be helpful for examining flowers but is not required. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection for the field event.