By Zan Tomko
It can be difficult to describe the Arboretum in its entirety because it is so many things to so many people. It’s a world-class collection of trees, shrubs and perennials selected for Minnesota, a horticultural research center, a series of rich natural habitats and an inspiration for gardeners and artists. The 1,200 acres are a tapestry of rich and varied textures with a new path to discover on every visit.
I stopped to check out the natural wetlands next to the Marion Andrus Learning Center that — just last month — were still covered in snow. Now May, the area is home to a pair of nesting Canada geese. A bubbling stream of water drains into the wetlands and the pair has made themselves at home. One goose preening and one, as usual, acting the sentinel. Whether it’s a gaggle or just a pair, one goose stands guard, neck erect, keeping a lookout for trouble. It's amazing to see the wetland full of the energy of the season.
As I turned my car around in the parking lot of the Dog Commons I noticed fresh-cut logs covered in lichens. The Arboretum is constantly undergoing change and renewal to expand opportunities and education. These felled trees will ultimately be re-purposed, but also provide a chance to see long-growing lichens up close. These branches, once way above eye level, now show so many lichen varieties in one place.
Near the Japanese Garden at the beginning of Three-Mile Drive, the entrance bed is filled with Scilla mischtschenkoana, white squill, each flower marked with a bright blue line. Squill is one of the earliest blooming buds, but is non-native.
Right after Berens Cabin along the edge of the woods, drifts of ‘trout lily’, named for the shape and marking on the leaves, pop out from the forest floor. Dog-toothed violet is another common name for this early bloomer.
Further along, the canopy of oak trees stands against the blustery spring sky, welcoming all the birds and critters that feast on their bounty. If you want wildlife, plant an oak tree. Famed entomologist Doug Talamay calls this tree the “keystone for ecological restoration” because it feeds so many on the forest food chain. If you like birdwatching, you need an oak tree. Check out his Homegrown National Park Project for more information.
You would be surprised how quickly an oak tree grows from an acorn. For a few years, it is unobtrusive, and you do have to protect it from critters’ lunch tables, but a native oak can be a substantial element in your landscape within five years. Visit the oak collection to see over 15 varieties of oaks suitable for Minnesota. Take notice of the many old and new oaks throughout the Arboretum.
Wozupi Wi is the Dakota name for the planting moon, April 19 to May 18. It marks the beginning of summer and many lovely days. With the many trees, habitats and gardens, what path will you choose when you visit the Arboretum?
Zan Tomko is an artist, horticulturist and MN Master Naturalist.