Photos by Natalia Ungashick
Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
$85 member/$105 non-member, includes Arboretum admission, take-home plant press, and all supplies*.
Program location: Farm at the Arb - McVay Learning Lab (in the Bee Center) and surrounding gardens
Adult 18+
Introductory
Join Natalia Ungashick, Plant Recorder at the Arboretum for this introductory workshop where you will be introduced to the history, science and art behind the creation of herbarium specimens and the importance of herbaria in the world of botany and horticulture.
This introductory course will begin with a brief history of herbaria, followed by a walk to the gardens then return to the classroom for pressing. Get full access with Natalia, the curatorial department's plant recorder, who manages the MLA Herbarium at the Arboretum. Discover key features of various types of plants and what to press.
In this special access workshop you will:
- Learn about the history of herbaria
- Explore the best techniques for pressing plants
- Get exclusive access to garden collections
- Experience first hand how to press collected plant material
- Take home samples including plant press
*Supplies: All supplies and plant materials are included. Includes a take-home plant press and specimens. All other shared supplies will be provided for use during the class. Picture frames not included.
Weather: As Minnesotans know, the weather can be unpredictable…that is the joy and spontaneity of spending time in the natural world! Be prepared for inclement weather and dress accordingly.
Instructor: Natalia Ungashick is the Plant Recorder at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. In this role, Natalia manages the Arboretum's herbarium, verifies plant nomenclature and plant identity through photography, inventories the gardens and makes the plant display labels. She attended the University of Cincinnati to obtain a B.S. in Biology and Environmental Studies, then moved to Minnesota to pursue work in the curatorial department at the Arboretum. Outside of work, Natalia spends her time taking care of her houseplant collection, specializing in Hoyas.
We recommend that you enter the Arboretum via the back gate on 82nd St, not the main entrance on Hwy 5. This is the most direct route to access the Farm at the Arb, and avoids potential delays when driving through the Arboretum.
Directions: Farm at the Arb Entrance
If you do wish to enter through the main Arboretum gate on Hwy 5, you can take 3-Mile Drive through the Arboretum and turn right on Peter Moe Drive to get to the Bee Center (this route may take an additional 15-20 minutes, so please plan accordingly).
Main Entry instructions:
You will receive a gate pass for entry to the Arboretum in your email purchase confirmation. Your pass is valid for entry on the days of your class. Present your pass to the gate attendant as you enter the Arboretum. You may stay at the Arboretum after class as long as you want during our operating hours.