What will my child do in the Children's Gardening Program?

Throughout the season they are enrolled, Crafters and Sprouts plant and care for a garden and learn about garden-related topics through fun enrichment activities. Each session includes time dedicated to hands-on gardening and time dedicated to learning about a particular theme, through investigations, hikes, discussions, and games. Caregiver accompanying their Sprout actively participates along with their Sprout.

Where does the Children's Gardening Program take place?

The program takes place outdoors at the Edible Academy (EA). The campus is located near the East Gate and includes gardens, classrooms, greenhouse, open air pavilions (offering relief from sun and rain), restrooms, water bottle refill station, and hand sanitizer dispensers. The classrooms and greenhouse will not be utilized during the program. The Edible Academy campus is NOT open to the public during the CGP sessions.

Does my child harvest and keep what they grow?

Many of the crops the Crafters and Sprouts plant and care for are harvested during the season they are enrolled. Some of the crops are left to grow and are harvested by the Crafters and Sprouts enrolled in subsequent seasons. Some of the crops will be harvested by Edible Academy staff and donated to local community-based food providers.

Does my child choose what they grow?

In order to have seeds and seedlings ready each program session, EA staff develop planting plans that include a diversity of crops that are seasonally appropriate. Each season more than a dozen different vegetables, herbs, and flowers are grown.

How does my child get to the Edible Academy?

Crafters and Trams are transported to and from the Edible Academy on the NYBG Trams. Trams depart from the Tulip Tree Allee. Crafters Educators join the Crafters to provide supervision during the ride.

Who teaches my child during the Children's Gardening Program?

NYBG hires and trains Crafters and Sprouts Educators to facilitate the gardening and enrichment activities planned by Edible Academy administrators. Each Educator is assigned up to 12 Crafters or 12 Sprouts and accompanying caregivers and is supported during program sessions by several Edible Academy administrators as well as Assistant Educators.

What efforts are being made to promote my child's safety during the program session?

All activities of the Children’s Gardening Program will take place outdoors; all staff and participants are required to wear face coverings indoors and in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden and the Edible Academy. Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer stations are installed throughout the Edible Academy campus. All garden tools will be disinfected with an alcohol-based disinfectant in between users. Enrichment activities will include hikes and games that promote social distancing.

How do I enroll my child in the Children's Gardening Program?

You can enroll https://www.nybg.org/learn/kids-teens/childrens-gardening-program/ or via phone at 718.817.8181.

When does registration for the Children's Gardening Program begin?

You can register your child for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and/or Fall 2022 sessions now.

Do NYBG Members receive a discount?

Yes, we offer CGP Crafters and Sprouts at a discounted rate for NYBG Members at the Family Level and above.

Are discounts available for enrolling in more than one season?

Yes, we offer a 10% discount for enrolling your child in three or more seasons. Please use code CGP1022 at check out.

Do you offer financial scholarships?

Yes, you may apply for a https://nybg.doubleknot.com/form/takesurvey.aspx?surveyid=83821&orgkey=3803 .

Who do I contact if I have further questions regarding the Children's Gardening Program?

You can email childed@nybg.org or call 718.817.8181

How can I purchase or renew a Membership?

You can purchase a Membership https://www.nybg.org/join-support/membership/ , on-site at any ticket window, or by calling the Membership Office. To purchase online you’ll have to create a new Member account. Renewing Members have an existing account. https://www.nybg.org/content/uploads/2019/11/ME_Members-Login-Info_2019-Final.pdf

Trade-in Tickets Towards Membership

If you have purchased regular-priced admission to the Garden, during your visit the ticket price can be applied to the cost of a Membership. For Individual and Teacher level, the cost of one regular-priced ticket is applied. The cost of two regular-priced tickets can be applied towards the purchase of a Dual Membership. The cost of two adult and two children’s tickets can be applied towards the purchase of Family–Sustaining Memberships. Please see a Visitor Services Representative on the day of your visit for additional details.

When will I receive my Membership materials?

Please allow 2–3 weeks from the date of purchase to receive your Membership materials. We will assume all proper Membership materials have been received unless notified. Please notify the Membership Office if you have not received your Membership materials 3 weeks after purchase.

Renewals may be processed at any point once your Membership term has commenced. When you renew an active Membership, it will be extended for one year from the current expiration date. The Membership Office does not retain the credit card information. This information must be re-submitted with each renewal.

When can I begin using my Member benefits?

Member admission and discounts can be used immediately upon purchase of Membership. Member Passes for guest admission or parking will be sent with your Membership materials within 2-3 weeks of purchase. Member passes can only be redeemed by presenting the physical pass at the Garden.

What admission benefits do Members receive?

Membership entitles you to year-round admission. Each Membership is allotted a fixed number of complimentary Member tickets per day determined by Membership level.

What discounts do Members receive?

Members receive a 10% discount off purchases at NYBG Shop. Members also receive discounts on education course fees and on select premium events.

Do I have to reserve tickets for timed entry?

Timed tickets may be required for admission to the Garden. This is necessary to alleviate overcrowding, ensure a more pleasant experience, and protect the Conservatory, collections, and delicate exhibitions.

How do I redeem my Member Passes?

To receive complimentary parking, redeem pass to the parking attendant upon arrival on Garden premise. When parking at our secure parking facility at 401 Bedford Park Blvd, Members must validate parking ticket and redeem pass at a Garden ticket window to avoid Event and Standard Weekday non-visitor rates. For guest admissions, passes can only be redeemed at Garden ticket windows; they cannot be reserved in advance. Each pass can be used once. If you do not have your passes when you visit, you will be required to pay regular price (no refunds).

How do I redeem Member Passes for timed-entry admission?

If a Member with a timed ticket brings a friend using a guest pass, Garden Representatives will do their best to accommodate the guest(s) at the same time. Additional timed tickets are available for purchase at regular price if you have exceeded the number of complimentary admissions allowed by your Membership level.

Can I give a friend one of my Member passes?

No. Members are required to accompany their guest(s) when using a guest pass.

Are Member Passes always valid for guest admission?

Member Passes are not valid for guest admission during the Holiday Train Show® or select premium events.

What reciprocal benefits do Members have at participating gardens and arboreta?

Garden Members receive reciprocal benefits at gardens and arboreta throughout the United States through our association with the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program. Benefits vary by organization. Members must contact the Garden they wish to visit confirm what benefits are available. A complete listing can be found https://ahsgardening.org/gardening-programs/rap/ .

Can I access the Garden prior to opening hours?

Early Morning Access is a great way to enjoy the beauty and solace of the New York Botanical Garden’s grounds before the Garden is open to the general public. Supporting, Contributing, Sustaining, and Patron level Members can utilize their complimentary Early Morning Access from Tuesday–Sunday, 6–10 a.m. Please have your Membership ID card or proof of Membership purchase (receipt) available when entering the Garden. Please note that no building entry is allowed with the exception of the Visitor Center and East Gate restrooms and parking is only available at the Mosholu Entrance (2950 Southern Blvd.).

How long does it take to receive my Membership card(s)?

Membership cards and passes will be mailed within 2-3 weeks of Membership purchase. Membership is active upon purchase and is not contingent upon the receipt of Membership materials.

How many cards will I receive?

Individual level will receive one Membership card. Memberships that include two or more individuals will receive at most two Membership Cards, one for each adult named on the Membership. If a Member wishes to add a new second individual to the Membership during cycle, there is a $10 replacement card fee.

Do I need my Membership card to access my benefits?

No. If you do not have your Membership card, a photo ID will be requested by Garden Representatives to receive your Member benefits. Member benefits are for the Member(s) listed on the Membership.

I lost my card. How do I get a replacement?

There is a $10 replacement fee for lost, damaged, or stolen Membership Cards You can purchase a replacement card at any ticket window when visiting the Garden or by calling the Membership Office. Please allow 2-3 weeks for the mailing of replacement card(s).

Membership is valid for one year from the date your application is processed. No refunds, extensions, or exchanges will be granted if you are for any reason unable to utilize your Membership Benefits.

Memberships, Membership Benefits, passes, and Membership Cards are nontransferable.

Membership Downgrades

The Garden does not permit a Member to downgrade to a lower Category once the Membership materials have been received and/or benefits have been used.

Membership Terms & Conditions

These terms and conditions apply to all Members of the Botanical Garden. In these terms “you/r” or “Member/s” refer to all people who have purchased or applied for a Membership at the Individual, Individual Senior, Dual, Dual Senior, Family, Family Senior, Friends & Family, Supporting, Contributing, Sustaining, and Teacher categories. The terms “we”, “NYBG”, “the Botanical Garden”, or “the Garden” refer to The New York Botanical Garden. With the exception of the benefit of admission to the Garden, we reserve the right to alter the Membership Categories and Benefits without prior notice. Members and guests are subject to conditions and policies of the Garden. We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to refuse entry and/or Membership to a Member and to revoke a Membership without refund if a Member behaves in a threatening or abusive manner toward any person, or damages or threatens to damage any of the collections at The New York Botanical Garden. We reserve the right to amend the terms of these policies at any time. At the time of an amendment, Members will be notified.

What’s the advantage of attending the school of professional horticulture versus earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in horticulture?

The advantage can be summarized with one word—skills! The School’s strength is that it teaches students valuable horticulture skills, which give our graduates a competitive advantage over other programs based solely on coursework. The School’s program combines the theoretical and the practical, teaching not just how to grow plants, but why plants grow the way they do. It is due to this kind of education that our students are highly sought after, not just for internships, but also for full-time employment upon graduation.

As someone who is switching careers, what is it like to work in the horticulture industry?

It is a close-knit community of dedicated and passionate professionals who are willing to share their knowledge, experience, information, and employment opportunities. As a student, you meet many key people in this profession from around the world in diverse areas of horticulture, and as a graduate, you become part of that community. One of the biggest benefits of attending the School is making these lifelong contacts here at NYBG and beyond.

What is the typical demographic of students in the school?

Students come from all over the country and world. Most students have some college background, and many have degrees in fields other than horticulture. The majority of students are career changers and range in age from their late teens to mid-50s.

What is the job placement rate for graduates?

The School has had a job placement rate of 100% for the past 8 years. Our alumni are highly sought after by botanical gardens, public parks, celebrity estates, and even major league sports stadiums. Exceptional students also are often hired at NYBG upon graduation when a position is available. However, the School does not promise or guarantee employment.

What kind of salary can I expect to recieve

Generally, private industry pays more than public parks and gardens. The starting salary range in private industry is typically $50,000–$60,000; for non-profits it is $40,000–$55,000.

How is the two-year program divided?

The program is divided into nine terms. Academic classes are concentrated between rotations and include evening sessions.

What if I have fewer hours of experience by application deadline, should I still apply?

Yes; contact the Director to assess your situation.

How many course hours should I expect to take?

Students are required to complete 630 Course Hours and 1,990 Horticulture Rotation and Internship Hours in order to qualify for graduation.

How many hours of studying can I anticipate?

On horticulture rotation days, students start at 8 a.m. and finish at 4 p.m. On class days, students may start at 10 a.m. and finish at 6 or 9 p.m. Students also can expect to have classes some evenings throughout the year. Some courses require homework and studying outside class hours.

Why are some courses taught in the evenings?

Many courses are taught by our expert Horticulture staff. Due to their daytime schedules, they are only free to teach after 4 p.m.

Is it possible to work part-time while I am a student in the School?

Due to the intense schedule of academic courses and work rotations, in addition to various lectures, field trips, and plant ID walks, it’s nearly impossible to hold a part-time job, find time to study, and stay in good academic standing for the two-year program.

What does one recieve after Graduating from the school?

After successfully completing the program, students receive a Diploma in Horticulture from The New York Botanical Garden.

Housing is available in the Bronx and lower Westchester County within a convenient distance from the Garden. Housing is not provided by the School, and out-of-town and international students are advised to secure housing prior to arriving in New York.

When does orientation start?

Orientation starts the last week in January. New students meet staff and become familiar with the Garden’s philosophies, policies, and facilities. Orientation and special group projects with Horticulture continue through February and March to prepare students for their horticulture rotations in the spring.

Does the school provide computer access?

Computers are available 24 hours a day in the Student Room, M-280. Students may be assigned an NYBG e-mail address if desired. In addition, there is Wi-Fi service in the Watson Building and other buildings on campus.

What study and dining facilities are available to students?

Classrooms and academic facilities are in the Watson and Library buildings. The Student Room is available for meal breaks, studying, drafting, and computer use. Horticulture training is carried out at locations throughout the Garden. The Garden’s Pine Tree Café on Garden grounds is open Tuesdays through Sundays, and students enjoy a 20% discount. The Café serves pizza, panini, salads, snacks, and beverages. The Hudson Garden Grill is a more formal dining option on Garden grounds. There are also several moderately priced diners, cafés, and pizzerias within walking distance of the Garden.

EcoQuest Challenge Archive 2020 | New York Botanical Garden

Flag Phrag - December 2020

Common Reed (Phragmites australis subsp. australis), also known as “Phrag,” is very aggressive in disturbed sites where it forms extensive monospecific stands (e.g., New Jersey Meadowlands).

Estuaries and marshes are some of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, but their transformation to communities of one invasive species such as Phrag degrades their dynamic structure, diversity, and ecological benefits.

Help NYBG document as many Common Reed plants in New York City as possible by December 31.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Photograph Common Reed plants anywhere in New York City.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

4. Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals, and keep a safe distance).

More information:
Common Reed Guide

Behold Baccharis - November 2020

Groundsel Tree (Baccharis halimifolia) is an important salt marsh species that helps to reinforce and stabilize vulnerable shorelines and provide cover for wildlife. One of the few indigenous shrubs to flower in fall, its nectar provides food for many insects, including Beetles, Bees, Flies, Wasps, and Butterflies. Your observations can help document the versatility and beauty of this often overlooked native plant.

Help NYBG document as many Groundsel Tree plants in New York City as possible by November 30.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Photograph Groundsel Tree plants anywhere in New York City.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

4. Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals, and keep a safe distance).

More information:
Groundsel Tree Guide

Report Mugwort - October 2020

Common Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a Eurasian perennial in the Sunflower family (Asteraceae). Multiple introductions to North America beginning in the 1600s and subsequent genetic crossing have resulted in a range of morphological diversity, especially in leaf form. Outside its native range it is highly
invasive, spreading by underground rhizomes and forming monocultures.

Help NYBG document as many Common Mugwort plants in New York City as possible by October 31.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Photograph Common Mugwort plants anywhere in New York City.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

4. Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals, and keep a safe distance).

Jumpseed Journey - September 2020

Jumpseed (Persicaria virginiana) is a perennial plant in the Buckwheat family (Polygonaceae) that is native to eastern North America. Formerly in the same genus as the dreaded Japanese Knotweed, Jumpseed is an excellent replacement in locations where Japanese Knotweed has been removed.

Ripe Jumpseed fruit are held under tension and are thrown several feet when touched, hence the common name. Sawfly larvae are known to feed on Jumpseed leaves, creating neat round holes, apparently without significant risk of harm to the plants. How many Jumpseed plants are in your neighborhood?

Help NYBG document as many Jumpseed plants in New York City as possible by September 30.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Photograph Jumpseed plants anywhere in New York City.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

4. Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals, and keep a safe distance).

Monarchs and Milkweeds - August 2020

Scientists estimate that Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) populations have declined by more than 50% since last year. Although overall NYC iNaturalist observations are up 6% this year to date, only 133 Monarchs have been observed, down 34% from 201 during January–July 2019.

The only food source for Monarch caterpillars is Milkweed (Asclepias), observations of which in NYC are statistically unchanged. How many Monarchs and Milkweeds can you find?

Help NYBG document as many Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed plants in New York City as possible by August 31.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Photograph Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed plants anywhere in New York City.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

4. Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals, and keep a safe distance).

Climbing the Walls - July 2020

The Latin word for wall is murus, the origin of the word mural. Many plant species are able to grow on walls, particularly those adapted to lime, a common ingredient in concrete and mortar. Ferns, grasses, and even some trees are often found growing on walls. How many different species can you find climbing the walls where you live?

Help NYBG document the urban flora of New York City.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Look for vertical man-made surfaces (concrete, stone, or brick) in your neighborhood, and photograph the plants you find growing on them. Each observation should feature an individual plant. If there are many plant species present, each one should be a separate observation.

3. Upload your observations to iNaturalist.

Make the Connection - June 2020

Since 2017 New Yorkers have documented more than 370,000 plants, fungi, and animals across all five boroughs of New York City and uploaded observations with photographs to iNaturalist. The program is designed to capture photos and information about individual specimens, but sometimes our photos catch insects visiting flowers or birds eating fruits.

Documenting these connections can reveal hidden life webs. These connections inform conservation efforts to protect native plants and animals.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

1. Visit nybg.org/EcoQuest for more information about animal and plant interactions.

2. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

3. In the program search for “Make the connection” or go to https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/make-the-connection.

4. Find observations with insects on flowers. Use the Observation field to record the connection. Type in “Interaction->Visited flower of”. In the drop down field, type in “Plants- Kingdom Plantae”. Click Add to save your work.

Nature in Focus - May 2020

Many of us have photo archives stored on various devices. As nature lovers, many of these pictures are probably of plants, fungi, and animals we observed here and there in New York City over the years. You can help document biodiversity past and present (and stay safe indoors) by uploading your archived photos to iNaturalist. Please tag them with date and location to ensure their scientific value.

Here’s how you can help NYBG document plants, fungi, and animals in New York City.

1. Download the iNaturalist app or register at iNaturalist.org.

2. Upload your photos of wild plants, fungi, and animals (no pets or people). Using the desktop version of the program, click the green “Upload” button. On the mobile app, tap “Observe” and then the photo icon. Be sure to tag date and location. Multiple views of the same organism photographed at the same time should be combined into one observation.

Look for Leaf Miners from Home - April 2020

Leaf Miners are insects that spend a portion of their life cycle inside a plant leaf. In their larval stages, these insects feed on the nutritious tissue between the upper and lower leaf surfaces. Their movements in search of fresh tissue are often visible through the leaf surface as distinct trails.

Help NYBG document occurrences of Leaf Miner insects on White Snakeroot plants in New York City by April 30.

1. Visit the LOOK FOR LEAF MINERS FROM HOME project page on iNaturalist. You will see thumbnail images of all 17,000 White Snakeroot observations, arranged in rows and columns.

2. Click on one of the thumbnails to call up that observation.

3. Look for evidence of Leaf Miner activity (distinct trails lighter in color than leaf surfaces) in each of the images for that observation. There may be many leaves that must be examined carefully.

4. Look for the Observation Field (lower right of screen) to see if already marked. If not, start typing or select “Leaf Miner” in the box. Enter “Yes” if you see distinct Leaf Miner trails, or “No” if you can clearly see the leaves but do not see any Leaf Miner trails. If you are not sure whether you see any Leaf Miner trails, or the images are too blurry, or there are no leaves visible, select “Unclear.” Be sure to click “Add” to save your annotation.

5. Review these observations, observations for examples of positive or “Yes” evidence of Leaf Miners.

6. Review these observations, observations for “No” evidence of Leaf Miner.

7. Review this observation for “Unclear.”

8. If the observation has already been marked with a Leaf Miner annotation, skip it and go to another.

More information:
Leaf Miner research

Find more Lesser Celendine - March 2020

Lesser Celandine (Ficaria verna) is an invasive plant from Europe and western Asia that is spreading rapidly throughout southeastern New York, including New York City. Unlike Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), which it somewhat resembles, Lesser Celandine invades pristine natural areas and forms a monoculture that crowds out native species such as Violets (Viola spp.) and Carolina Spring-Beauty (Claytonia caroliniana).

Help NYBG document the abundance and distribution of Lesser Celandine by photographing as many plants as possible March 31. Photograph Lesser Celandine anywhere in New York City. For large populations, photograph plants every few feet to show extent of coverage. Post your findings to iNaturalist so they can be added to the NYC EcoFlora Project.

Additional resource:
Guide to Lesser Celandine of New York City.

Can you find Euonymus? - February 2020

Species of Euonymus are small trees, shrubs, and woody vines in the Staff-Tree family (Celastraceae). Indigenous and introduced species in our range have sharply angled (and sometimes winged) stems; opposite leaves that are evergreen or deciduous; and brightly colored fruit. Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) is an aggressive invader with conspicuously winged stems (see photo).

Help NYBG document as many Euonymus plants as possible by February 29. Photograph the plants anywhere in New York City, and be sure to get clear photos of the stem, leaves, and fruit clusters. Post your findings to iNaturalist so they can be added to the NYC EcoFlora Project.

Additional resource:
Guide to the Euonymus of New York City.

Make the Grade - January 2020

During 2019, New Yorkers made over 140,000 observations of plants and animals in all five boroughs of NYC. Practice your identification skills by reviewing the 61,000 observations from the past year that still Need ID. When two or more reviewers agree on a species name, the observation becomes Research Grade and gets uploaded to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database of over 1 billion biodiversity records.

This month we are asking everyone to take a virtual Challenge by reviewing observations that need ID, confirming or adding IDs, and helping them MAKE THE GRADE.

Visit the NYC EcoFlora Project at iNaturalist for more information about how you can help every observation MAKE THE GRADE.