Aspen (Populus tremula) is one of the rarest of Scotland's native trees. It forms a vital habitat, food source and part of our landscape. We need more Aspen! Aspen plays a vital role in the D&G landscape - from craggy coastal outcrops to sites inland. Many of the clones used in Scotland's clone bank were gathered from coastal locations in Dumfries & Galloway. Aspen rarely sets seed. It requires a long dry summer in the previous year which rarely occurs now! However aspen also multiplies by vegetative means, sending out root suckers which then grow to form new trees. These suckers can multiply themselves so that a single tree can become a large stand of trees all of which are effectively the same organism. The trees are termed “clones”. There is a decreasing number of clones remaining in the wild. Each clone is genetically unique and has unique growth characteristics. This fun and informative workshop will give attendees the skills to propagate their own Aspen and include background to the history, ecological significance, life cycle and benefits of this tree. We'll start the day with a cup of tea whilst learning about Aspen and how it reproduces, before heading out to a nearby Aspen clone to take root cuttings, then return to plant them out. Tea and coffee upon arrival will be provided.