Natural History Institute Presents Grass Workshop: Exploring Grass Anatomy and Identification a workshop with Sue Smith and Cheryl Casey

Step into the world of grasses in this hands-on botany class, where you’ll explore the intricate anatomy that makes these plants essential to ecosystems. Sue Smith, president of the Prescott Native Plant Society, and Cheryl Casey, the NHI Collections Manager, will guide you in taking an in-depth look at the unique features of grass leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds.

Working with both live and preserved specimens, you’ll learn how to identify grasses based on key structural traits. Using hand lenses and microscopes, you’ll examine defining features such as ligules, sheaths, and inflorescences in fine detail. Along the way, we’ll discuss the ecological roles of grasses, their evolutionary adaptations, and their importance in shaping landscapes.

No prior experience is required, just a curiosity about the plant world. By the end of the class, you’ll walk away with foundational skills in grass identification and a new appreciation for the quiet complexity of the grasses beneath your feet.