Descanso Gardens announces January classes

To register for classes, please call (818) 949-7980. Classes require advance registration unless otherwise noted; there are no walk-ins. Details on classes at www.descansogardens.org



Painting Nature, six Saturdays starting January 7, 10 a.m.-noon: Learn the finer points of painting the natural world from accomplished local artist Jay R. Ewing. This series of watercolor classes is aimed at beginning and intermediate watercolor students. $90 members, $120 nonmembers. Space is limited. Advance registration recommended. In Sycamore Science Center.



Beginning Tai Chi, 10 Tuesdays starting January 10, 8:30 a.m.: Instructor Laura Gloster leads this class, which emphasizes force rather than strength. $120 members, $150 nonmembers. Advance registration required. In the Rose Pavilion.



Advanced Tai Chi, 10 Wednesdays starting January 11, 8:30 a.m.: Instructor Laura Gloster leads this class for more experienced students of tai chi. $120 members, $150 nonmembers.Advance registration required. In the Rose Pavilion.



Winter Acorn Bear, four Fridays starting January 20, 10:30 a.m.: Where is Acorn Bear? He is asleep for the winter, but his forest friends are keeping busy. Children ages 2-4 years are invited for Winter Acorn Bear. Bundle up, and enjoy story time, crafts, and a savory treat in this winter twist on a beloved Descanso tradition. T-shirt included. $35 members, $45 nonmembers; $15 member siblings, $25 siblings. Reservation deadline January 18. In the Rose Pavilion.



Mushrooms and Gardens: What? Why? How?, Saturday, January 21, 9:30 a.m.: Learn about the fungus that flourishes in parks and gardens from Florence Nishida of the Natural History Museum. The growing practice of applying mulch to planting beds hasencouraged the growth of many rare fungi. Learn more about this fascinating plant family and its place in the ecosystem – and your backyard. Members free, $10 nonmembers. In Van de Kamp.





Rose Pruning Demo, Saturday, January 21, 11 a.m.: January is rose-pruning season. Get expert guidance in this essential gardening task from horticulturist Rachel Young and gardener Richard Troche. They will provide both information and a demonstration. Free with admission. In the Rose Pavilion.



Meet the New Roses, Saturday, January 21, 1 p.m.: Hybridizer Tom Carruth has created more All-American roses than any other living hybridizer. The "King of the Roses" presents an illustrated lecture on the newest roses to hit the market. Free with admission. In Maple.



About Descanso Gardens: Established as a public garden in1953, Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, near the interchange of the 2 and 210 freeways. The Gardens are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Christmas Day. Parking is free. Admission fees are $8 for adults; $6 for seniors and students; $3 for children 5 to 12, and free for members and children 4 and younger. Fees for classes and programs include Gardens admission. For information, call (818) 949-4200 or visit www.descansogardens.org. Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums.