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.

Two children point at tree rings on an enormous section of wood

Children’s Education

Young minds grow at NYBG—and families are welcome! Each year, over 300,000 kids, parents, and teachers take part in our Children’s Education program, discovering the beauty and diversity of plants, their cultural significance throughout the world, and their importance to life on Earth. See how the Garden is inspiring future green thumbs all year round, and plan your next family outing in New York City’s most exciting greenspace.

School Programs

Over 90,000 school kids a year in grades K–8 take part in NYBG programs, joining us from public and charter schools throughout our City and region. See how we’re ensuring students grow up with a love of nature!

Learn More

Children and teachers take part in a plant class while examining soil and leaves

Family Programs

Looking to discover nature with your little ones? Drop-in family programs make learning fun and easy in the Adventure Garden and Edible Academy, where thousands of people each year explore the science of plants and the benefits of healthy eating.

Learn More about Drop-in Programs

Learn More about Registered Programs

2 adults and 3 children making crafts in Everett Children's Adventure Garden

Teen Internships

Your teen can shape their future at NYBG! A passion for teaching often starts early, and NYBG’s volunteer Explainers Program gives over a hundred teens each year the chance to take an active role in youth education.

Learn More

A teenager in a green shirt teaches three children about plant parts in a classroom setting

People gather in a conservatory full of red and green foliage, taking notes in notebooks

Teacher Education

Grow your skills as an educator at the Garden! Kicked off in 1996, teacher education at NYBG provides resources to local educators that make the connection between outdoor learning and the classroom, offering training that gives teachers the knowledge and confidence to thrill kids with science education.

With one-day customized workshops for local schools and districts, plus six-day institutes spotlighting science, nature, nutrition, and garden-based education, NYBG has the largest botanically focused teacher development program in the country.

Learn More

a group of veterans salute for a picture at the Edible Academy

Veterans Program

NYBG is a place of healing and respite for young and old alike. Working with the Resilience and Wellness Center (RWC) at the James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center in the Bronx, NYBG gives veterans a safe and rewarding space to take part in horticultural therapy and gardening activities.

Beginning in January 2020, groups of up to 10 veterans will come to NYBG for four weekly,three-hour sessions with a registered horticultural therapist, consisting of seasonally-based activities such as planting, seed-starting, watering,weeding, cooking, and nutrition education.The sessions will take place at NYBG’s Edible Academy a three-acre campus of gardens,classrooms, a teaching greenhouse, and other facilities that opened in 2018—where children,families and the general public learn about growing and cooking fresh fruit and vegetables.

Started in January 2020, the Therapeutic Horticulture and Rehabilitative Interventions for Veteran Engagement (THRIVE) program invites groups of vets to join us in the Edible Academy for weekly sessions with a registered horticultural therapist, where they get hands-on with planting, seed-starting, watering, weeding, cooking, and nutrition in our state-of-the-art gardening education campus. This program is supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Drone photo of the Edible Academy from overhead

Edible Academy (EA)

With a learning greenhouse, teaching gardens, and state-of-the-art classrooms including a kitchen for cooking education, the Edible Academy inspires thousands of new green thumbs and healthy eaters each year—from parents and their kids to local teachers. Find your passion for plants and nutrition here!

School Groups: Over 7,000 kids grades Pre-K–5 discover the joyful world of gardening and nutrition each year.

Special events: From the spring planting to the fall harvest, the Edible Academy is a hub of welcoming activities throughout the growing season, with monthly drop-in programs and special weekend events each year.

Family Programs: A rich offering of out-of-school programs means your kids never have to be bored at home. NYBG Camps and the Children’s Gardening Program offer year-round opportunities to get to know nature, indoors and out.

Learn More

Children running through the entrance gate of Everett Children Adventure Garden in the fall

Everett Children’s Adventure Garden (ECAG)

Your little ones can explore the fascinating world of plants (and wildlife!) in our beloved children’s garden, where nature exploration and science investigations excite and enlighten in every season. Uncover the beauty of nature as a family right here in the Bronx!

School groups: Discover plant science and ecology concepts through outdoor fun with educators, open to kids grades Pre-K–5. We’re proud to welcome over 20,000 school children each year!

Drop-in Family programs: Bring the family for drop-in programs and hands-on science activities on weekday afternoons and all day each weekend. You’ll join our Teen Explainers in getting to know the wondrous world of plants.

Registered Family Programs: We’ve got winter, spring, and summer school breaks covered for kids ages 5–10! Seasonal camps get them active outdoors among NYBG’s renowned collections, while the Nature Explorers program offers an introduction to our green and growing world for 2–3-year-olds and their caretakers.

Explainers Program: Our Teen Explainers have been at the heart of our children’s education for many years, inviting students from local high schools to take part in teaching our youngest visitors. Including activity stations during school field trips as well as drop-in activities for afternoon visitors, be sure and say “hi” to our young experts!

Renovation: The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden is getting a makeover! Throughout 2024 we’re restoring and improving this fan-favorite greenspace to ensure generations of kids to come can discover their love of plants here. While the Adventure Garden is closed, we’re offering plenty of kids’ programming elsewhere throughout our renowned botanical collections.

Learn More

Children explore green plants and cacti in a conservatory

GreenSchool

Our 250 acres are a place of botanical education all year round. Just under the verdant palm trees and tropical plants of the Haupt Conservatory is a learning space that welcomes over 11,000 school kids annually for engaging workshops and tours that introduce them to the fun and importance of plants.

School workshops: Our GreenSchool classrooms are the launchpad for hands-on plant workshops geared toward kids in grades K–8. From there, they explore the landmark Haupt Conservatory collections, including rain forests, deserts, and aquatic landscapes—and venture out to the Perennial Garden and beyond.

Guided tours: Expert NYBG guides lead expansive tours for kids grades Pre-K–8 that invite them to look deeper into nature and science using the Haupt Conservatory, the winding trails of the Thain Forest, the Bronx River, and the lush Native Plant Garden.

Bronx Institute: In partnership with the Bronx Institute at Lehman College, NYBG’s GreenSchool has provided years of enrichment programs for middle and high school students in our region. Beyond science and humanities activities that expand young minds, students meet up with Garden experts to get career advice and more.

Partnerships

The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden is partnered with the New York City Depart of Education’s Budding Scientists program, introducing kids in schools K–5 to our complex urban ecosystems.

100kin10 is a collaboration between academic institutions, nonprofits, foundations, companies, and government agencies that seeks to address the nation’s STEM teacher shortage.

For several years, NYBG’s Children’s Education program has teamed up with staff at the Children’s Museum of the Arts to dream up and co-teach courses that spotlight the intersection of art, nature, and science.

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