Courses

As part of VanDusen Botanical Garden’s 50th Anniversary Lecture Series we are pleased to host an evening with Suzanne Simard.

Suzanne is a Professor of Forest Ecology at the University of British Columbia and the author of the book, Finding the Mother Tree. The pioneering work of Suzanne Simard on plant communication and intelligence has been featured in magazines, podcasts, TED Talks, documentary films and radio programs in North America and Europe. She was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world for 2024.

Suzanne will be presenting at VanDusen Botanical Garden (in person registration sold out). Online tickets available.

Featuring presentations by Suzanne Simard, Brian Minter, Egan Davis as well as a evening with VanDusen’s expert staff and volunteers, join us as we celebrate the past and look forward to the future!

Each talk will be presented both in person and online, and pre-registration is required for both formats.

Curious about the birds and bees of Vancouver?

Join Emily Black, an enthusiastic entomologist and experienced VanDusen guide, as she explores the world of local pollinators and their contributions to the beauty and productivity of nature during this outdoor session. Learn to identify common species, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, along with their preferred plants and flowers. Get expert tips on creating a ‘pollinator-friendly’ backyard to support these vital creatures and enhance your garden’s biodiversity.

Join us in the Garden for an afternoon native plant ID tour! We will begin in the Cascadia Garden, visit the Western North America Garden, and make our way towards the cool shade of the BC Habitat Garden. Learn essential plant ID of some of the most common perennials, shrubs, and trees in this region and how to increase biodiversity and beauty in your home garden by adding native plants.

This two-hour outdoor program, facilitated by Allison Luke, will be presented rain or shine and includes walking on both paved and unpaved paths.

Experience the rejuvenating effects of forest bathing, a guided sensory experience designed to help you unwind and reset by connecting you with the Garden’s diverse plant communities and soothing soundscapes. Research by instructor, Dr. Tara Tiger Brown, has shown that this mindful Japanese practice is associated with significant improvements in mood, reduced stress levels, and a deeper connection to nature.

During this two-and-a-half-hour session, Tara will guide you through activities designed to enhance your awareness while you enjoy the benefits of social interaction and personal reflection. The practice concludes with tea and time to share experiences and ask questions.

Join us for this insightful tour & talk featuring the Conifers of VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Coniferous trees, ranging from towering giants to alpine miniatures, are among the most diverse and long-lived organisms on Earth, with a fascinating natural history and a wide range of ornamental uses. Join Andrew Fleming, VanDusen Superintendent and expert gardener, to discover the fascinating variety of conifers in the Garden, including evergreens and deciduous species, and learn about their unique adaptations and ecological roles. 

Join us for a deeply calming sound immersion experience led by Denise Levine, surrounded by the serene beauty of VanDusen Botanical Garden.

We begin with a brief exploration of the science behind sound and its effects on the body and mind, followed by a guided relaxation, and conclude with a sound immersion with crystal singing bowls to enhance tranquility and connection with the natural world.

Unlock your garden’s potential to craft cocktails, mocktails, and teas with expert guidance from Laurelle Oldford-Down. Discover the versatile flavors of fruit, flowers, leaves, and seeds that can be transformed into fantastic edible syrups for delightful drinks to enjoy with friends and family. During this presentation, you’ll have the chance to taste a range of flavoured cordials made from leaves, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. You will also learn about the benefits of various plants, as well as tips for growing and harvesting your planned garden additions and receive recipes for your future harvest.

This program includes a guided walk through the Garden to help you identify edible plants that can be used to make syrup.