October / November Bird Tours

Sunday, October 6 - Sunday, November 17 10am

Vancouver Botanical Gardens Association is delighted to present free, guided Birding Tours at VanDusen Botanical Garden with our knowledgeable volunteer guides. Tours are free with admission, registration is required as space is limited.

During this leisurely 2-hour tour through the Garden, your small group will look & listen for some of the many resident & migratory bird species that frequent the site, while your guides share their birding skills, enthusiasm, and knowledge. Beginners are encouraged to attend! Dress for the weather and bring binoculars if you have them (we will have a few pairs on hand to share).

Building Incredible Soil in Your Garden (Online)

Thursday, October 10 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Discover the basis of all life on earth – healthy soil! In this session led by Kayla Siefried, explore what soil is made of and the vast importance of soil microbes. We’ll take a deep dive to answer these questions and many more:

• What is soil made of, and why does soil chemistry matter for growing healthy gardens?
• How can you compost like an expert, mulch like a superstar and build soil organic matter every day of the year?
• What are some gardening methods that can help your garden thrive with beneficial soil microbes and healthy soil chemistry?

Come learn why soil is so important for plant growth and how to build incredible soil.

Discovering Pacific Northwest Mushrooms (Online)

Friday, October 18 6.30pm - 8.30pm

Join Jeremy Collison in exploring the diverse fungi of British Columbia, home to over 1,000 known species with more awaiting discovery!

In this online session, you will learn to identify key edible mushrooms, understand their crucial role in forest ecosystems, and uncover the fascinating relationships between fungi and trees. Jeremy will guide you through finding mushrooms, using maps and weather patterns to locate promising spots, and understanding different mushroom habitats.

 

October Ivy Weaving

Saturday, October 26 10:00am - 12:00pm

Discover the art of crafting baskets and trivets from invasive English ivy!

In this hands-on experience led by Grace Nombrado, you will learn all the steps of collecting, preparing and weaving ivy. Enjoy refreshments while you connect with fellow participants. You’ll leave with your very own completed ivy creation. No experience is necessary; all materials are provided.

October Multisensory Nature Immersion

Saturday, October 26 10:00am - 12:30pm

Escape the stress of modern life and immerse yourself in the Garden’s tranquility.

This guided immersion isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s a slow, gentle experience that engages all your senses, fostering deep connections with nature. You’ll be guided by Tara T Brown to enjoy the Garden’s lush soundscape and calming power, with optional journaling and sketching time.  The session concludes with reflection over wildcrafted tea and treats.

Pine Needle Basketry: Okanagan Traditions

Tuesday, November 5 - Tuesday, December 10 11:00am - 1:00pm

This workshop involves creating small pine needle baskets using pine needles collected from the Okanagan, sinew, and a lot of patience. Over this six-week series, taught by Dave McKeown from Terri’s Native Crafts, you will make your own small basket to take home.

Terri’s Native Crafts was established 30 years ago by Terri and Dave McKeown to help Terri reconnect with her St’at’imc heritage. Following Terri’s passing, her husband Dave and granddaughter Jess McKeown continue to follow the powwow trail in her memory. Dave, who has been weaving for 15 years, was taught by elders.

Watercolour: Silhouettes

Thursday, November 7 - Thursday, November 28 10:00am - 12:30pm

Discover the stark beauty of silhouettes in this 4-session watercolour painting series!
Learn how to capture the essence of leafless trees, the striking North Shore mountains, plants, and even human figures using simple watercolour techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this course offers an opportunity to unleash your creativity.

Instructor Susan Pearson will provide image references for inspiration, but participants are also encouraged to bring their reference materials. Bring your imagination and curiosity, and let’s explore what we can create together!