Descanso Gardens announces February 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



Faery Tours of the Enchanted Forest, Saturday, Feb. 4, 9:30 a.m. to noon: Follow forest faeries as they guide children and adults through the Descanso Camellia Collection. Learn flower facts, hear faery stories of enchantment and frolic, and be prepared for surprises along the way. Tours are about 20 minutes long. Part of the Camellia Festival. Free with admission; first come, first served. At Magnolia Lawn.



Camellia Walk & Talk, Saturday, Feb. 4, 10:30 a.m., noon & 1:30 p.m.: Camellia horticulturist Wayne Walker leads these explorations of the Camellia Garden as part of the Camellia Festival. Learn to identify the different kinds of camellias and get camellia care advice from the pro. And enjoy a winter ramble through these gorgeous blooms. Free with admission. At Center Circle.



Curator Camellia Lecture, Saturday, Feb. 4, 11:30 a.m.: Descanso Curator Wen Wang will discuss the Gardens’ famous Camellia Collection. The Descanso Gardens collection is the largest in North America, and has been named an International Camellia Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society. Find out more about the depth and variety of the Descanso collection. Part of the Camellia Festival. Free with admission. In Van de Kamp.



Tea Time with Chado Tea, Saturday, Feb. 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Learn all about tea (Camellia sinensis) from the experts at Chado Tea of Pasadena. They will provide tea tastings, offer information and sell select teas. At 1:30 p.m. Jordan Essey from Chado will discuss the origin of tea, how it is processed and categorized. Part of the Camellia Festival. Free with admission.



Backyard Chickens and Bees, Saturday, Feb. 11, 11 a.m.: Turn your backyard into a mini-farm. Local expert John Lyons will teach the basics of raising chickens and backyard beekeeping in an urban setting. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. In Maple.

Tram Tour of Love, Tuesday, Feb. 14, 3 & 4 p.m.: Cuddle up and tour the most romantic reaches of Descanso with your main squeeze. This adventure includes a glass of champagne or cider for each participant. $25 per couple.Tickets available January 14 at ticketweb.com. At Center Circle.



That’s Amore! Dinner, Tuesday, Feb. 14, 6 & 7:30 p.m.: Wow your honey with a three-course seated dinner prepared with love by Patina. Toastyour romance with a complimentary glass of wine while a pianist adds tuneful ambiance. $70 per person. At Boddy House. Reservations: www.patinagroup.com/descanso



Redirecting Rainwater, Saturday, Feb. 18, 10:30 a.m.: Learn techniques to preserve rainwater, prevent run-off, and maximize the potential of natural rainfall. Rachel Young leads this hands-on class that includes both lecture and practice in the Gardens. $10 members, $15 nonmembers. In Maple and the Gardens.



Heritage Oak Walk, Saturday, Feb. 25, 1 p.m.: Descanso Curator Wen Wang leads this guided walk whichprovides an introduction to the Coast live oaks native to the Gardens. Through the ages, this species has provided sustenance to many creatures, includingnative people who relied on the acorns for food. Free with admission. At Center Circle.



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.