Brooklyn ecologists speak at Polly Hill

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File photo by Susan Safford

On Wednesday, Sept. 18, Polly Hill Arboretum in West Tisbury will hold two demonstrative talks on environment and ecology. The first, which takes place from 1 to 3 pm, is a “basic pruning” workshop. Chris Roddick, senior arborist at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, will cover techniques such as directional pruning, shrub rejuvenation, the “three cut method,” and tool maintenance. In-class demonstrations and hands-on practice will teach basic plant physiology and how plant habits inform pruning choices. Registration is $20, or $10 for Arboretum members, and pre-registration is encouraged.

The second event, at 7:30 pm, will focus on the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Rebecca McMackin, Director of Horticulture for the park, will discuss the many ecological strategies employed by the park’s designers, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, as well as the management techniques currently in use to cultivate a biodiverse parkland. The talk is $10, or $5 for Arboretum members. For more information, call 508-693-9426 or visit pollyhillarboretum.org.