Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne lake
	Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Vista

Have you ever watched tree crews at work and wondered what they are doing?
 
The Royal Botanic Gardens’ two arborists will be showing off their skills on Spring Open Day, the biggest annual event on the Royal Botanic Gardens' calendar, on Sunday 7 October.
 
Jim Shugg and Rebecca Barnes will demonstrate their tree climbing expertise as well as talking about how best to look after older trees.
 
They will also give an insight into how the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens manages its historic and famous tree collection.
 
Spring Open Day this year will feature many different free tours and walks, kids’ activities, food and entertainment.
 
On Western Lawn, there is the chance to attend the Green Hub which will feature experts talking about many different horticultural techniques including how to get roses to bloom for longer, tips on pruning and the basics of garden design.
 
Visitors are encouraged to take the sustainable water walk which tells the story of how the Gardens’ will be preserved into the future thanks to stormwater harvesting.
 
Other activities on offer include:
·      Spring highlights, a walk including a visit to horticulturists in their plant collections
·      Nursery tours, a once a year opportunity to visit the Plant Nursery
·      A mud pie kitchen for the kids
·      A walk with an Indigenous guide and listen to ancient plant lore and taste bush tucker.

Mrs Kylie Regester, Manager of Public Programs at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, said: “Last year’s event drew over 12,000 visitors for a day of free family fun”.
 
“Don’t miss out this year - pack a picnic, bring the family and celebrate spring at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne,” she added.