Cholla Buds: The Caviar of the Desert
Join us for an adventure to harvest the buds of the often maligned but nuritionally rich cholla cactus. Using traditional harvesting methods, participants will be taught how to carefully remove spines and cook cholla buds, while learning about their ecology, anatomy, ethnobotany, nutritional and medicinal qualities. This is the ultimate experience in eating local; you will leave with new recipe ideas to surprise friends and family. Instructed by Martha Burgess. Limit 15.
Wednesday / April 14 / 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Member: $60 / General Public: $72
Click here to register on-line for April 14 class.
The Magic of Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are among the most fascinating birds of the world. Their iridescent colors, acrobatic flying skills, small size and dynamic temperaments delight and intrigue us, but their natural history is even more compelling. Learn about hummingbird biology, adaptations, behavior and natural history. Arizona hosts 15 species of hummingbirds, more than anyplace else in the United States. We will learn how to identify and locate both common and rare species, before venturing into the Garden to practice what we have learned. Limit 20.
Saturday / May 1 / 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Member: $30 / General Public: $38
Click here to register on-line for May 1 class.
Home is Where the Hole is
Have you ever noticed a hole in the ground and wondered what animal made it, or if it could be home to a snake? Holes abound in the desert as animals hunt for food or seek refuge from predators and weather extremes. Learn how to read holes and burrows to discern who made them and which animals are living in an area. This little investigated phenomenon presents a fascinating look into the lives of our wildlife neighbors. Join Pinau Merlin, author of The Field Guide to Desert Holes, to peek into the secret lives of these subterranean dwellers and discover who is behind all that digging. Limit 20.
Sunday / May 2 / 1 - 4 p.m.
Member: $30 / General Public: $38
Click here to register on-line for May 2 class.
Ethnobotany Walk: Plants and People Trail
This tour will be conducted by Ray Leimkuehler, horticulturalist for the Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert Trail, and will focus on the ethnobotany of the trail’s living collection. Included will be discussions about saguaro fruit harvesting, cholla bud roasting, medicinal and edible plants in riparian areas, indigenous agriculture, processing methods, and other medicinal, historical and horticultural topics. Limit 20.
Tuesday / May 4 / 6 - 8 p.m.
Member: $20 / General Public: $25
Click here to register on-line for May 4 class.
The Journey of Tomatoes, Potatoes, and Chiles
Three New World crops–tomatoes, potatoes and chilies–are eaten by people around the globe. We all know and love them, but do we know much about their amazing history? Learn where they came from, and why today we have so many different varieties. Explore the rich cultural and horticultural history of these three special crops. Instructed by Mary Irish. Limit 30.
Tuesday / May 11 / 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Member: $35 / General Public: $42
Click here to register on-line for May 11 class.
