NYFA WORKSHOP: Identification of Plants in Winter.

What: This workshop will cover the interesting and challenging topic of the identification of plants during leaf off conditions. It is for beginners and experts alike. Although many fail to botanize during the winter months, it is amazing what plants can be identified during this off season.

When deciduous woody trees and shrubs shed their leaves and other parts, distinguishing scars are left behind. These scars, along with persistent fruit from the past season, next season’s leaf and flower buds, pith characteristics, and growth form features are used to identify plant species in winter and will be covered during the workshop.

And, it is not just woody species that can be readily recognized in winter. Several of our ferns are winter green, while others leave behind easily identified persistent spore stalks. Our clubmosses are also evident in winter, as they are not hidden among other ground cover. Dried stalks, basal rosettes, and persistent parts from herbaceous flowering plants are also often easily identified.

Who: Joe McMullen, retired consultant and botanist, NYFA Board Member.

When and Where: Saturday January 25, 2020. The workshop classroom portion will be held at the Onondaga Lake Visitors Center near the NYS Fairgrounds just west of Syracuse. The field portion will be held at a nearby county park. This is a one day workshop, with the classroom portion from 10:00 to 12:30 and the field portion from 1:30 to 3:30 or 4:00. Lunch is on your own.

Cost: Workshop fee is $40 for NYFA members and students, and $60 for nonmembers.

Registration and Inquiries: To register online see the events tab on the NYFA website (nyflora.org) and send an email with contact information (name, address, affiliation, email and best phone) to Joe McMullen at joymcmullen2@msn.com. Alternatively, you may mail a check for the full amount made out to the New York Flora Association, PO Box 122, Albany NY 12201. For questions contact Joe McMullen.