Stockbridge, MA. . . .Berkshire Botanical Garden presents noted author, educator and researcher Dr. Michael Dirr Saturday, February 18 (snow date February 19) 2pm, at Monument Mountain Regional High School, Great Barrington, MA, for the 2012 Winter Lecture, "The World According to Dirr: Trees and Shrubs for the 21st Century."

Dr. Dirr's influence in horticulture is far reaching.  A prolific author and noted hybridizer, he has dedicated his life to educating the public about the importance and use of woody plants in the landscape.  Landscape Management magazine recognized Dr. Dirr as the number one academic contributor to the landscape industry.  Dirr has published more than 300 scientific and popular publications and has authored 12 books.  Often referred to as "the bible" for industry professionals, his book, Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, is one of the most widely adopted reference texts in horticulture and landscape architecture education.  It has sold over 500,000 copies. 

Dirr has received more than 20 awards, among them the highest honors from the American Horticultural Society, Garden Clubs of America, American Nursery & Landscape Association and the American Society for Horticultural Science. A professorship in his name has been established at the University of Georgia in recognition of his accomplishments.

Dirr's illustrated lecture will weave a tapestry rich in topics befitting an American icon of horticulture, complete with his signature humor and style.  The endearing noble trees, trends in woody plants and the back story of the landscape industry including plant breeding and development are among the topics he will present. A reception and book signing of his latest book, Dirr's Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs (Timber Press, October, 2011) will follow the lecture.

Proceeds from the Winter Lecture support Berkshire Botanical Garden's Horticulture Certificate Program and other Garden education programs, which provide hands-on workshops and classes to children and adults year-round.  Additional information on education programs can be obtained through the Garden's website, www.berkshirebotanical.org. Tickets to the lecture are: $35 for Garden Members / $42 nonmembers; group discounts are available. Seating is limited and reservations are required.  For more information and to reserve tickets, call Berkshire Botanical Garden at 413-298-3926, or visit the website, www.berkshirebotanical.org. 

Berkshire Botanical Garden's Winter Lecture is generously sponsored by Hunter Boot.

Caption:  Noted author Dr. Michael Dirr is featured at Berkshire Botanical Garden's annual Winter Lecture February 18 at Monument Mountain Regional High School, Great Barrington, MA.