Visitors to the Albany Pine Bush Preserve can learn about the plants in their midst on Sunday, Sept. 13.

The program will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the discovery Center. Learn 10… Trees is a program of the New York Flora Association designed to help people of all ages and levels of knowledge begin learning the plants of New York.

Learn 10… focuses on a group of only 10 plants to teach simple techniques for easily identifying any plant, including trees, shrubs, wildflowers, grasses, ferns, and mosses.

Albany Pine Bush Preserve Steward and Botanist Jesse Hoffman will guide participants in a beginners’ course on how to identify 10 native tree species through the use of keys, guides, and their senses during a combination of lab and field sessions. Instruction will be provided on the use of keys and guides as well as field signs to be able to identify trees.

The route is over moderate terrain, but participants should be prepared with sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat, water, and insect repellent.  A 10x hand lens is optional but recommended.  Some guidebooks will be provided though participants are welcome to bring their own books as well. 

Anyone interested in how to know the trees is encouraged to participate; no prior botanical training is necessary. The program is for those over 14 and costs $3 per person or $5 per family. Pre-registration is required by calling 456-0655 or through www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.