.Learn Edible Wild Plants or how to make a Rain Barrel this Sunday May 23, 2010

This Sunday, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center features two great classes running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Research Chemist and Houston blogger Dr. Mark Vorderbruggen will teach which wild plants are edible, where to find them, and how to prepare them at “Edible Wild Plants, The Real Organic Food” from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. From acorns to wild violets, the Texas landscape is filled with an abundance of wild edibles. Ancient foodstuff can be found everywhere from outside your front door to the deeps of the Piney woods. Whether you are learning to survive in the woods or just want to cut your food bills, this class if for you. Please bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sack lunch, and bug repellent. A pencil/pen and a camera are also recommended. A plant guidesheet will be supplied. $40 for members, $50 for non-members: register here - https://www.houstonarboretum.org/ediblewildplantsform.asp.

At 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Arboretum Conservation Director Joe Blanton will lead the “Build Your Own Rain Barrel” Workshop. Supplies for two rain barrels are included for this make & take class where you will make your own Rain Barrel for harvesting up to 100 gallons of chemical-free water from your roof every time it rains while cutting your water bill. From public health to nature education to building trade project management, Joe Blanton has studied interpretive environmental science, sustainable land design and wildlife habitat restoration from various national, state and local organizations. His latest undertaking has been to become one of the first 100 accredited Green Roof Professionals in North America. $95 for members, $105 for non-members: register here - https://www.houstonarboretum.org/greenlivingform.asp.

For more information, please call (713) 681-8433 or visit www.houstonarboretum.org. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a 155-acre sanctuary in the heart of Houston, located at 4501 Woodway Drive (77024).