Explore the stunning variety of trees that beautify the American landscape, and learn from experts how to establish, preserve, and restore trees in the landscape during this exclusive AHS Garden School. “Trees of the American Landscape” will take place at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, one of America’s most famous landscapes. Guest Horticulturist Dean Norton, director of horticulture at Mount Vernon, will be your host as you meet and get personal instruction from nationally renowned horticultural experts.

The Garden School will begin with a lecture by landscape architect and arborist Guy Sternberg on ”Trees of the American Landscape.” Next, Tom Smiley, an arboricultural researcher for Bartlett Trees  will share techniques for “Establishing Trees in the Landscape.” In the late afternoon, Dean Norton will take you on a “Walking Tour of George Washington’s Beloved Trees” with arborists from Bartlett Trees, who will share the strategies for preserving these trees for many years to come. In the evening, Mike Hayman will discuss “Creating a Neighborhood Arboretum,” based upon his personal experiences in Louisville, Kentucky. The day will conclude with a reception and dinner at the Mount Vernon Inn.

On the second day, International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist Holli Howard will inspire you with “Understanding the Value of Trees in the Landscape” as she explains how new technology allows municipalities and facilitators to more effectively manage tree populations. Next, Morris Arboretum’s Director of Horticulture and Curator, Tony Aiello, will relate his first-hand experiences of “Modern Day Plant Exploration” and discuss what characteristics will be important for the next generation of landscape trees. Following lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn, Garden School attendees will go to River Farm, the national headquarters of the American Horticultural Society, for a “Tree Care and Preservation Field Study” with The Care of Trees.  As the Garden School draws to a close, join AHS Board members and staff for a ceremonial tree planting.

Through these presentations, demonstrations, and other specially planned activities, you will learn practical tips and techniques for selecting, establishing, and preserving trees in the landscape.