WORKSHOP

Palm Collecting: From Field to Herbarium

Herbarium specimens are essential for documenting palm diversity—but palms can be challenging to collect well. This hands-on workshop will equip you with field-ready skills to make complete, well-documented palm herbarium specimens, from collecting and pressing to botanical description, mounting and storage.

Pre-conference event, before conference mixer
12 July 2026 | 8am – 3pm
Conducted by: Prof William Baker and Dr Fred Stauffer
Location: Singapore Botanic Gardens

Herbarium specimens are essentials for documenting taxonomic diversity of the palm family and critical for our understanding of its classification, ecology, evolution, distribution and conservation. However, palms present numerous challenges to conventional field collecting methods and, as a result, many collectors avoid them or make inadequate collections. Under-representation of palms in herbaria is a significant obstacle to modern palm research. This workshop aims to address this problem and equip participants with the necessary skills to make complete and well-documented palm herbarium specimens.

This workshop combines theoretical knowledge on palm collecting, pressing and botanical description with practical activities outdoors. Benefiting from the rich living palm collection of the Singapore Botanical Garden, techniques for recording and collecting all key groups of palms will be covered, with participants being introduced to representatives of all five subfamilies in the living state.

The main goal of the workshop is to develop field-oriented skills leading to the production of herbarium specimens of the highest standard. Recommendations on how to accurately mount palm specimens and store them in herbaria will also be provided.

No previous knowledge is required for participants. This workshop is targeted at passionate tropical botanists at any stage of their career who will apply these skills in the field. General plant collectors keen to learn palm collecting specificities are particularly welcome.

Establishing a Global Conservation Consortium for Palms

During conference event
Date and time: TBD
Conducted by: Dylan Fuller (Botanic Gardens Conservation International), María José Sanin (Montgomery Botanical Center) & Patrick Griffith (Montgomery Botanical Center)
Location: Ngee Ann Kongsi Auditorium, University Town

Join us for an interactive workshop exploring the creation of a new Global Conservation Consortium (GCC) for palms. This session will introduce the GCC model, highlight lessons from successful existing consortia, and discuss how a global network for palm conservation could be organised. Through case studies, group discussions, and interactive breakout activities, participants will help shape the vision, priorities, and collaborative structure of this new initiative. The workshop aims to connect scientists, conservation practitioners, botanic gardens, growers, enthusiasts, and potential supporters interested in advancing the long-term conservation of palms worldwide.

Palm Propagation Workshop: From Seed to Seedling

Post-conference event
18 July 2026 | 9 am - 10.30 am
Conducted by: Zaki Jamil (National Parks Board), Anton Van Der Schans (Gardens by the Bay) & Ang Wee Foong (National Parks Board)
Location: Pasir Panjang Nursery

Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to introduce beginners and home gardeners to the fundamentals of palm propagation. This practical session will guide participants through the complete process of growing palms from seed, covering essential techniques for successful cultivation. The workshop will begin with proper seed preparation methods, including cleaning techniques to ensure optimal germination rates. Participants will learn about different germination methods suitable for various palm species, understanding how environmental factors influence success rates. We will demonstrate proper sowing techniques in germination trays, covering substrate selection and optimal growing conditions. The workshop will also cover the critical process of separating and transplanting seedlings into individual growing bags, ensuring minimal root disturbance and continued healthy development.

Participants will gain practical experience in handling delicate palm seedlings and learn best practices for ongoing care. This beginner-friendly workshop accommodates 15 participants and combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. Attendees will leave with confidence in palm propagation techniques and practical skills to continue their palm growing journey at home. All materials and tools will be provided.