Back by Popular Demand!
 
Enjoy the beauty of the spring season and be inspired by the Ilgenfritz Daffodil Collection

Medford Leas bountiful collection of daffodils began when one of its earliest residents, Marjorie (Midge) Ilgenfritz, arrived in 1978 with her collection of prized bulbs from her garden in Mamaroneck, New York. Over the years, Midge’s bulbs were divided and moved throughout the Medford Campus.

Learn more about this cherished spring bloom. Enjoy a guided tour of our collections and be inspired to add this wonderful burst of spring color to your garden at home.

Walks will be guided by Debbie Lux, Medford Leas Horticulturalist, along with Medford Leas residents.

The Annual Lewis W. Barton Arboretum Lecture, followed by refreshments and Alfresco Shop, 12 noon – 1:30pm
 
Our parks and wildlands are too small and disconnected to sustain native ecosystems on their own. To address this, we must practice conservation in our everyday spaces—yards, communities, farms, and ranches. Homegrown National Park (HNP) is a challenge to restore 20 million acres by reducing lawns, planting natives, and removing invasives. This movement aims to create diverse ecosystems in urban and rural areas, protecting vital species. Small actions from many people can help restore ecological networks and safeguard our life-support systems.

Doug Tallamy is the T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, where he has authored 112 research publications and has taught insect related courses for 44 years. Chief among his research goals is to better understand the many ways insects interact with plants and how such interactions determine the diversity of animal communities. His books include Bringing Nature Home, The Living Landscape, co-authored with Rick Darke, Nature’s Best Hope, a New York Times Best Seller, The Nature of Oaks, winner of the American Horticultural Society’s 2022 book award. In 2021 he cofounded Homegrown National Park with Michelle Alfandari (HomegrownNationalPark.org). His awards include recognition from The Garden Writers Association, Audubon, The National Wildlife Federation, Allegheny College, Ecoforesters, The Garden Club of America, The Herb Society, and The American Horticultural Association.
 
Take advantage of the opportunity to do some spring shopping in our Al Fresco Shop.
You will find spring plants, garden accessories and small gifts to enjoy this season. Sponsored by the Medford Leas Gift Shop in support of the Arboretum Fund.

Back by Popular Demand!
 
Just in time for the summer! Join us as you receive expert guidance to create a beautiful and healthy planter to adorn your outdoor living space. Pot, soil, and plants will be provided. You don’t want to miss this one!

Debbie Lux is Medford Leas’ in-house expert horticulturalist. She oversees the maintenance and wellness of the campus gardens and Nature Center.

Be inspired by the seasonal beauty of the Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve. Attendees shouldwear sturdy shoes, long sleeve shirts and long trousers. Walks will take place rain or shine. 
 
Within the entire 168-acre Medford Campus, there are 60 acres of woodlands that comprise the Nature Preserve. Just over five miles of marked trails cover the woodlands as well as the Meadow. The Medford Leas Residents Woodlands /Trails Group offers a tour of this extensive nature trail system that they have developed and maintained over the years.