"As a nonprofit organization, our docents play a very important part in the success of Quail Botanical Gardens. They are our ambassadors to the world.

We have also found we learn as much from them as they do from us; they bring a wealth of experience to the Gardens."

~ Patricia Hammer, QBG Director of Operations

Every year, Quail Botanical Gardens offers both Spring and Fall Docent Classes to the public.

What is a docent?
Docents at QBG are more than volunteers; they are professionally trained in all elements of the Gardens, including:

• Botany
• Propagation
• Public education
• Garden development
• Nursery management
• Collections and curatorial work

With this extensive training, docents play a very important role at QBG by leading tours for school children and adults, creating and staffing various Garden projects, helping with day-to-day garden administration and representing QBG in local outreach programs, like community festivals and events.

Docent training at QBG includes a team teaching/cooperative learning approach with in-classroom instruction, in-garden instruction, several in-depth garden tours, conservation information and QBG history. Lectures and tours are conducted by QBG docents, garden staff, and additional expert speakers on a variety of topics designed to familiarize participants with botany in general, California native plants in particular, and QBG specifically. Upon graduation, the new docent has a diploma, a botanical education, free access to the Gardens, and other Garden discounts.

Additional benefits include first choice at the annual plant sale and the opportunity to participate in such exciting QBG events as the Annual Gala, The International Orchid Fair, the Fall Plant Sale and the spectacular December Garden of Lights.

The fee for Docent classes is $50 plus $10 for materials. An annual commitment of 80 hours of volunteer time and a current garden membership are required to maintain docent status. The cut-off date for registration for Docent classes is usually 3-4 weeks prior.

Next Docent class scheduled for:
Spring 2006, date TBD

How to apply
A downloadable application can be printed by clicking here. Applications can also be requested by calling (760) 436-3036 x206, or emailing . Additionally, they are on hand at the QBG gift shop.

Send completed applications to Quail Botanical Gardens at P.O. Box 230005, Encinitas, CA 92023-0005 or FAX to 760-632-0917, or email to .