2025 Tree Keeper Training

Join Durham County Cooperative Extension, Keep Durham Beautiful and the City of Durham for our Tree Keeper Training Series! This three-part series will cover the basics of winter tree planting and care, and prepare you to lead small groups in tree plantings as a Durham Tree Keeper.

Class will be taught by Extension Horticulture Agent, Ashley Troth. For more information about the Durham Tree Keeper program, please visit https://keepdurhambeautiful.org/tree-keepers.

Dates: 9/16, 9/30, 10/14

Times: 3pm - 5pm

Location: Durham County Cooperative Extension - 721 Foster Street

Price: $30 for all three sessions

Needs-Based Scholarships: If you are interested in the program, but are financially unable to pay the class fee, please contact Ashley Troth ([email protected]).

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS:

Session 1: The Dig Deep Details of Tree Planting | September 16, 2025 | 3pm - 5pm

Learn about how to set up a successful tree planting! We'll review tree and root biology, and how to prepare your site and soil for success. We’ll also learn about the difference between bare-root, container, and ball & burlap trees, and how to properly plant each. We will talk a bit about the ergonomics of digging, and how to dig a hole that works for different sites. If all goes well, we'll even plant a tree!

Session 2: Structural Pruning for Success | September 30, 2025 | 3pm - 5pm

Just like many of us, trees need good structure when they are young to grow properly. Learn how to perform the initial structural pruning needed during the tree's early growing years. We'll spend time reviewing how trees grow to understand proper pruning techniques, how to decide which branches to cut and why, and what kinds of tools are needed for the job. Then we'll head outside to practice what we've learned!

Session 3: Tree Planting Masters Session | October 14, 2025 | 3pm - 5pm

Learn and apply your knowledge to help lead tree planting groups! This session will teach you how to lead small groups in tree planting. We'll learn how to train other people to plant trees, talk about safety and group management, and prepare you to become an official Tree Keeper! This session will include a general review of everything learned in the past three sessions, with a focus on leading small groups.

Individuals with disabilities are invited to request reasonable accommodations to participate in Extension sponsored programs and events. Please contact the county Extension office offering the program at least 14 days prior to the event to make arrangements.

Host or Publisher N.C. Cooperative Extension, Durham County