Spring is back!  Leaf buds are beginning to open and early flowering species are in bloom. Leave the beaten track and explore parts of Garden in the Woods’ natural areas, about two-thirds of its 45 acres. Appreciate why Will Curtis fell in love in the 1930’s with this glacially-formed property, as we identify a diversity of trees, shrubs, and some herbaceous species. Encounter interesting species such as American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana), spicebush (Lindera benzoin), and marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), while focusing on easily observable identification characteristics and natural history. Bring a hand lens if you have one, and a favorite field guide or two.