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.

In Recognition of Black History Month: A Conversation with Judith Insell

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In Recognition of Black History Month: A Conversation with Judith Insell

Posted in History & People on February 8, 2022, by Claire Janda

Claire Janda is the Public Education Coordinator at The New York Botanical Garden.

The Garden is proud to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to our national and botanical history each and every day. In commemoration of Black History Month, we are thrilled to cast a spotlight on professional violist, celebrated educator and diversity advocate, and Executive Director of the Bronx Arts Ensemble (BAE), Judith Insell.

CJ: Welcome, Judith! I must say, I loved watching your Garden Set, and I hope readers have a chance to watch and listen to the video clip. Thank you for the privilege of hearing more about your work and your musicianship today!

Can you share a little about yourself? How did your upbringing and education in New York influence your journey as a musician?

JI: I was born and raised in the northeast section of the Bronx. I was lucky to attend PS 178 & MS 181 in Co-op City where my exposure to music education began. If I had not been assigned the viola in middle school, I would never have become a violist… Public school arts education programs are so important to the development of potential artists. My string orchestra teacher recognized that I had an affinity for playing the viola and nurtured my talents by encouraging me to audition for the Bronx Borough-wide Orchestra, which started my advancement towards a career as a professional violist.

New York kids potentially have access to study music with the best artists in the world, and that was certainly my case—studying viola at LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, The Juilliard School (Pre-College Division), and then I spent my college years at the Manhattan School of Music. I also had the opportunity to play in some great youth orchestras: All-City High School Orchestra, Independent School Orchestra (ISO), and the New York Youth Symphony. A New York City kid learns the ropes early on re: how the professional music business works by living right in the center of it.

A woman in a bright green shirt, lips upturned, speaks into a microphone at a sunny event

CJ: How would you explain avant-garde jazz to a new listener?

JI: Avant-garde or “free” jazz is a movement that was started by a group of jazz musicians in the 1950s that were seeking a new musical “language” or “voice” to express their musicality. The notion of utilizing traditional melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic practices is replaced with an open and free approach to creating music, empowering musicians to express themselves in any way that they see fit. It’s very similar to the “Abstract” movement of visual artists like Jackson Pollock or Mark Rothko.

CJ: In what ways does embracing this style honor Black musical history for you personally?

Avant-garde jazz allows me the vehicle to express myself freely and openly, incorporating the many genres of music that I find interesting to play: jazz, pop, spirituals, hip hop, classical. I am able to draw from any musical style that inspires me to create a narrative that expresses my unique musical voice. Some of the greatest Black American musicians utilized “free jazz” as their mode of expression; Ornette Coleman, Albert Ayler, Cecil Taylor, and John Coltrane all embraced an avant-garde approach to making music. I am carrying on in the same vein. Utilizing a “free jazz” approach helps me honor the great Black American musicians that came before me in the avant-garde jazz movement. When I am freely improvising on the viola…it’s about total freedom of my true self, and for centuries, Black Americans have just been trying to be free…live free of all obstacles that exist in a white supremacist society. It’s when you are lost in the moments making spontaneously composed music, you truly feel free.

CJ: Do you have a favorite or go-to piece to use as a base for improvisation?

JI: I don’t have a go-to piece. What I “go to” is the deep emotion that I am feeling in the moment. Free jazz stems from the depths of “the now.” It’s spontaneous and reactive to your spirit, the environment (what your senses hear, see, feel, etc.), and the collaborators that are there in that moment creating the music right along with you… It’s music as instant creation of composition.

CJ: How do you see your music and artistry in relation to the natural world?

JI: The natural world is the greatest creative force that we know. The art of creation comes directly from the natural world itself. I truly believe that nature is the force that drives creativity. It is human nature that wills the spirit to create art… It is nature that the human spirit connects with to feel the freedom of creating music. Avant-garde jazz is an art form that flows with the energy guided by the natural world that it resides in.

CJ: As the Executive Director of the Bronx Arts Ensemble, can you share what BAE has in store for 2022?

JI: BAE is in the midst of its 50th anniversary year, celebrating the great cultural offerings of the Bronx. In honor of Black History Month, BAE, in collaboration with the Bronx House School for Performing Arts, will be presenting opera singer Markel Reed in an in-person performance at Bronx House on Saturday, February 5, 2022 at 3 p.m. This free concert is open to the general public, but requires attendees to RSVP in advance.

We will be presenting concerts and arts education events with our wonderful venue partners throughout the Bronx, including The New York Botanical Garden, Bronx Music Heritage Center, Casita Maria, Bronx House, and many more partners around the borough. We will have two very special events honoring the legacy of the institution: a concert at the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum featuring music curated by Louise Scribner (BAE’s founding oboist and current Executive Board Member), and a 50th Anniversary Gala to be held at the Bronx Zoo on June 9. We also look forward to returning to Van Cortlandt Park for a special Juneteenth event in collaboration with the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance. In the fall of 2022, BAE will resume its relationship with the New York Philharmonic.

A group of musicians perform for a daytime event, gathered beneath a temporary gazebo

CJ: What do you hope BAE’s audience takes away from a performance?

JI: It’s my greatest hope that BAE’s audiences take from our concerts the spirit of community. Music is an art form that brings together people to experience art, as either creators of the art or witnesses to the art being created. I also hope the art that we present our audiences stirs their spirits and inspires them to move through their lives in a positive way.

CJ: On your website, you mention that you are a champion of “musical diversity.” How do you feel this can be highlighted in the context of a recognition program such as Black History Month this February?

JI: Musical diversity, for me, means that I hold all genres of music on equal footing, finding all genres to be important and contributive to society. I strive to lift up all musical styles, be it Western European Classical, Traditional or Avant-Garde Jazz, Pop, Hip Hop, Folk, etc. Beauty shines through music when it is viewed through the lens of equality, supporting the cultures of the artists that are creating the art. Inclusivity is the way I think music making works best, when you allow the artist to present their art through their truest selves.

Judith’s Garden Set was recorded at NYBG’s historic Stone Mill. The Garden will also welcome back the Bronx Arts Ensemble for a special Mothers’ Day Weekend performance in the spring!

*All photos courtesy of Bronx Arts Ensemble