Learn to make the kindest cuts on trees and shrubs with Cheryl Topping's workshop, A Little Pruning Goes a Long Way, on Saturday and/or Sunday, Jan. 26 and 27, at 1 p.m. in the Sparling Pavilion of the Sunshine Coast Botanical Garden, 5941 Mason Rd. in Sechelt. Admission is by donation; $10 suggested.
Pruning is not difficult, once you identify your goal and how a plant will respond to each cut. It is part science and part aesthetics - working by observation and understanding. You cannot change the nature of a shrub or tree, but by working with its natural tendencies, you can guide its growth for greater health and beauty.
The basics are fairly simple, so with some advice about tools to choose and use and some advice about timing, you'll leave with more confidence. Your questions will form part of the teaching.
Topping is a certified arbourist and an enthusiastic teacher. Part of the workshop will be indoors learning some theory; part will be out-of-doors, using the trees and shrubs of the Botanical Garden as a learning lab. Bring a notepad, dress for the weather, and wear your sturdiest shoes.
With support from Sun-shine Coast Credit Union, the Garden is open daily with winter hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Garden members enjoy unlimited visits; for non-members a donation is requested for admission. By becoming a member, you'll receive updates and early notice of events, including hands-on workshops such as this, lectures, seasonal celebrations and much more. For more information visit www.coastbotanicalgarden.org.
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