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 222,000 plant specimens representing 4,100 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 focuses on and builds professional collaborations for practical scientific studies; key areas include tree health, tree improvement, and woodland conservation.co-located with research labs at The Arboretum is a herbarium with a collection of 205,000 dried specimens for botanical research. Through global tree conservation programs, The Arboretum leads partnerships and assists efforts to prevent tree extinction and secure threatened tree species. The chicago region trees initiative develops strategies for urban tree and forest improvement, advocating for trees in 284 communities in seven counties. Arbnet, facilitated by The Morton Arboretum, is an interactive professional community of arboreta with programs to foster 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. Through 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 112,000 items, contains publications on botany, horticulture, natural history, and ecology; rare books, periodicals, and catalogs; and botanical artworks; information is also accessible online. The plant clinic answers inquiries about plant selection and care.
Visitor programs: welcomed 1,054,361 visitors, maintaining The institution as one of The most visited public gardens in north america. Served membership of 57,534 households. Open every day of The year for driving/bicycling or guided tram tours. Specialty gardens include The 4-acre children's garden and 1-acre maze. The visitor center comprises 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.