Hike with a Horticulturist: Winter Ecology and Tree Identification

Winter Ecology and Tree Identification on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Join us for a 45-minunte educational “hike” along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail with an experienced horticulturist! Discover the hidden world of winter ecology and learn what happens to plants during the coldest months of the year.

What You’ll Learn:

During this guided walk, we’ll explore the fascinating adaptations that allow plants and pollinators to survive winter. You’ll discover how perennial and annual plants, woody shrubs, and trees endure the cold season, and learn about the diverse overwintering strategies employed by our local pollinator species.

Winter provides a unique opportunity to study trees when their structure is fully visible. We’ll examine branching patterns to understand proper pruning techniques and dive into basic twig anatomy—skills that will help you identify trees even without their leaves and determine how much growth occurred in the previous season.

Perfect For:

Nature enthusiasts, gardeners, amateur naturalists, and anyone curious about the ecology happening in our urban environment during winer. No prior experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and dress warmly!

Whether you’re interested in horticulture, ecology, or simply want to experience the Cultural Trail in a new way, this hike offers a fresh perspective on winter’s quiet beauty and the remarkable resilience of our local ecosystems.

This event is powered by PNC