Summer can be a surprisingly quiet time in the garden, especially after the explosion that is spring in the Northwest.  In this 4 hour course, learn plants that bring out their best in the summer, and can survive our dry season looking fabulous. We will look at some of the lesser-known and underutilized summer interest plants in person, including bottlebrush, pineapple broom, sweetspire, chaste tree, and clethra.

In addition to identification, we will also look at bloom characteristics, foliage types, landscape functions, care and pruning tips for long-term healthy plants. We’ll also cover drought stress, given our lack of rain this year.

Professional credits include ISA, CPH, ecoPRO, ASCA and PLANET, but you don’t have to be a professional to register. Plant nerds and homeowners are welcome!

Learn about this hardy group of plants with instructor Chris Pfeiffer, a horticulture consultant, instructor and garden writer with over 30 years’ experience in landscape management and arboriculture. Sustainable and efficient landscape techniques are a special area of interest and expertise. In addition to her private practice, she is a consulting associate with Urban Forestry Services, Inc. and an active volunteer with local community garden projects. She previously led landscape management efforts for the Holden Arboretum and Washington Park Arboretum. A frequent horticultural speaker, Christina has taught courses in pruning, arboriculture, and landscape management at Edmonds and South Seattle Community Colleges, and at the University of Washington. She holds degrees in horticulture from Michigan State and the University of Washington and is an ISA Certified Arborist. She is co-author with Mary Robson of Month-by-Month Gardening in Washington & Oregon (Cool Springs Press 2006).

Class information:

What: Arboretum Plant Study: Seasonal Plant ID and Culture – Summer Session

When: Thursday, July 23rd, 8am-12pm

Who: Landscape professionals, homeowners, gardeners, plant enthusiasts

Where: UW Botanic Gardens – Washington Park Arboretum (2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle)

Cost: $65; increases to $75 one week before the class

Register: Online, or by phone (206-685-8033)