Program areas at The Morton Arboretum
Plants and collections: The Arboretum grows and displays a rich diversity of trees, shrubs, and other plants that are evaluated for their suitability for The midwestern united states. These living collections include 106,714 specimens representing 4,067 different kinds of plants. Arranged by geographic, taxonomic, and other special groupings, The collections are enhanced by restored natural areas of native plants and ecosystems. The Arboretum's work in development of new plants results in useful and attractive trees and shrubs that are introduced in The marketplace.
Science and conservation: The center for tree science generates and communicates The scientific knowledge and technical expertise necessary to understand and sustain trees and their ecosystems, in all their diversity, in built environments, natural landscapes, and living collections. The Arboretum houses research labs and a herbarium with a collection of 216,500 dried specimens for botanical research. Through The global tree conservation programs, The Arboretum leads partnerships and assists efforts to prevent tree extinction and secure threatened tree species, with a focus on oaks. The chicago region trees initiative develops strategies for urban tree and forest improvement, advocating for trees in communities throughout The chicago region and The state of Illinois. Arbnet, facilitated by The Morton Arboretum, is an interactive professional community of arboreta and an Arboretum accreditation program that fosters advancements among tree-focused gardens.
Learning and engagement: programs, services, and opportunities are relevant to public needs and interests in learning about plants and nature in ways that provide meaningful experiences and improve The world. Based in The thornhill education center, classes and other offerings on site, online, and through outreach programs serve adults, youth and family audiences, schools, and scouts. Also available are teacher-training resources and a cooperative botany degree program with regional colleges and universities. The sterling Morton library, with 117,000 items, contains publications on botany, horticulture, natural history, and ecology; botanical artworks; rare books, periodicals, and catalogs; information is also accessible online. The plant clinic answers inquiries about plant selection and care.
Visitor programs: welcomed 1,092,088 visitors, maintaining The institution as one of The most visited public gardens in north america. Served membership of 56,321 households. Open every day of The year for driving/bicycling or guided tram tours. Specialty gardens include The grand garden, 4-acre children's garden, 1-acre maze. The visitor center houses interpretive displays, The Arboretum store, and The gingko restaurant. Special events and thematic exhibitions are offered throughout The year. Conference and banquet facilities are available for rental.