Empowering Professionals with Hands-On Arboriculture and Safety Training

Applied Tree Biology is a three-day, hands-on course for arborists, tree workers, municipal staff, parks and landscape personnel, and others who want to understand trees from the inside out and use that understanding to make better tree-care decisions.

Influenced by the question-driven, specimen-based teaching approach associated with Dr. Alex Shigo, participants examine tree material from shoots to roots using microscopes, hand lenses, saws, secateurs, field observation and guided dissection. Comparative study connects visible anatomy to growth, transport, energy storage, natural defense, root development, mycorrhizae, form, structure and response growth.

Tree biology is then applied directly to identification, urban tree selection and planting, and pruning. Participants use recognizable features and taxonomy to identify trees, evaluate species-site fit and planting stock, practise correct planting and root handling, interpret establishment needs, identify natural pruning targets, and explain how trees respond to pruning and wounding. The course emphasizes observation, inquiry, hands-on practice and care decisions that support long-term growth and vitality.