Expanding floral design. The Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd. in Saanich, is offering the Floral Toolbox on Oct. 20, from 1 to 4 p.m. Floral designer Anne Bowen will suggest ways to use foliage, leaves, sticks and stems as well as flowers in arrangements as she shares basic design principles and helps participants create arrangements in their own vases and containers using oasis. Students are asked to bring one small or medium sized vase and small secateurs or snips. All else will be supplied. Cost to HCP members $50, others $75. To register call 250-479-6162. hcp.ca.
Nursery courses. Russell Nursery, 1370 Wain Rd. in North Saanich, is offering the following classes. Except as noted, classes are free and last about one hour. Space is limited. To reserve a place call 250-656-0384 or email [email protected]. Please include your phone number if emailing. There is a limit of two classes per person.
? Dormant Season Pruning of Trees and Shrubs, at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. on a choice of Saturdays, Oct. 20 or 27, or Nov. 3. A professional arborist will cover general pruning theory and practice, with demonstrations. Cost is $10.
? Pruning Japanese Maples, Saturday, Nov. 24, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 25 at 10 a.m. Brian Russell will explain and demonstrate the science of pruning Japanese maples to make them look their best.
? Wreath-making classes. These popular classes at Russell Nursery fill quickly. Check russellnursery.com/classes/ for the dates and call to reserve soon.
