Native Tree Identification

Early June is a great time for looking at broad-leaved trees: their leaves are fully formed and some will still be flowering. This weekend will explore the natural history of trees and show you how to recognise individual species.

The main emphasis will be on those trees that are native to Britain, but we will also pay attention to well-established, introduced species. We will practise working with different keys to identification. Part of each day will be spent at the centre sorting through specimens and getting to grips with the terminology of the different shapes of leaves and the different floral designs of those that are still in flower.

As much time as possible will be spent in the field exploring the local woodlands, hedgerows and wet thickets of the varied habitats nearby in order to practice identifying as many species as possible.

Please note: This course is not part of the Biodiversity learning framework, this course is organised by the centre and the tutor.

Ros Bennett

Ros Bennett is a botanist and ecologist.  She was formerly a full time tutor at Flatford Mill and then organiser and leader of courses for Field Studies Council overseas.  She has written books on flowers and trees and has taught courses on both to all age groups.

We have four buildings that are used for visitor accommodation. Whilst most rooms are either en-suite or have a dedicated bathroom, there are some rooms in The Mill that share showers and toilets at the end of the hall. If this is un-suitable for you please make the office staff aware upon booking or as soon as possible.
Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable.

Arrival day

Flatford Mill:

Check-in is between 1600-1800, if you are arriving after 1800 please advise us, so we can ensure you are advised of access codes, room key location, and room location.

You will meet the tutor at dinner, and you will have your first session after dinner.

• 
  Expert Tuition
• 
  Free Wi-Fi
• 
  Full Board Accommodation
• 
  Hot and Cold Drinks
• 
  In Course Transport
• 
  Picnic Lunch

Full board accommodation and picnic lunch are available for resident bookings only.
Refreshments are included for all, but non-resident bookings are advised to bring lunch with you.

What to Bring

As the course involves field visits you will need a Thermos, lunchbox, waterproof clothing (available on loan from the centre) and stout shoes or boots.

Also, please bring the following with you if you can:

• A x10 magnification hand lens (available for loan or purchase at c. £9.00)

N.B. It is not necessary to purchase any books before the course or to bring any with you.  However you might like to have with you, a picture guide that you are used to using, especially if it arranges its trees in family order, such as one or other of the first two listed below

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British Trees: A photographic guide to every common species

by Sterry (Collins)
• Collins Tree Guide by  Johnson and More (Harper Collins)
• New Flora of the British Isles by Stace (CUP ideally 4th edit)

Ros will introduce her own key to native trees from Tree-spotting (Welbeck)