Plant Identification: Tools and Techniques for Identifying Native and Naturalized Plants in the Mid-Atlantic Region

Learn to identify plants like a botanist during this two-day intermediate course at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. You'll discover practical tools and techniques for recognizing native and naturalized plants across the Mid-Atlantic, including how to use field guides, mobile apps, AI resources, and technical manuals. A key focus is mastering dichotomous keys—the method botanists use to verify identifications and confirm you've got the right answer. The instructor will also help demystify scientific terminology that often makes plant ID seem intimidating. This course works best for adults with some prior botany knowledge. You'll spend both days (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) learning directly from Dr. Douglas A. DeBerry, a research professor at the College of William and Mary. Registration is required through the Garden's website. Membership pricing is $183, while non-members pay $229. If you need accessibility accommodations to participate, contact the Garden at 804-262-9887 ext. 328 or [email protected] to request support.