Getting to Know Conifers

Getting to Know Conifers at Tyland Barn is a practical classroom study day introducing identification of common conifer genera such as pine, spruce, larch, fir, cedar and redwood. The session focuses on recognising key features in foliage and cones and is designed for anyone keen to improve their identification skills in a structured, hands-on setting.

Most of the day will be spent in the Barn classroom getting to grips with the basic features of cones and foliage that help distinguish the main genera and the features used to separate species within each genus. Simplified identification keys will be introduced and participants will be encouraged to practise using a variety of twigs and cones provided for study.

By the end of the session you should have a clear understanding of what a conifer is and how they are classified, and be able to use features of cones and foliage for identification purposes. The course is well suited to amateur naturalists, conservation volunteers, students of botany and anyone with an interest in trees who wants practical, confidence-building experience.

This course is linked to a field trip to Bedgebury Pinetum on Sunday 19 November and it is highly recommended that participants join both study days to consolidate learning. For further information and booking details please visit the Study Days page of the Kent Wildlife Trust website.