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Chanhassen, Minn. (April 10) – “Treeology,” a celebration of the wonder and beauty of trees, is the theme of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s 2008 summer exhibition and the highlight of a momentous year for the 1,047-acre University of Minnesota public garden and horticultural research showcase in suburban Chanhassen.
The Arboretum celebrating its 50th anniversary, and its partner, the university’s Horticultural Research Center (HRC), is observing its centenary year. Located just one mile west of the Arboretum, the HRC is responsible for introducing numerous varieties of cold-hardy fruits, trees and shrubs to the world.
Special events will continue year-round, with “Treeology” as the showcase exhibit. “It’s only fitting that we return to our ‘roots’ with the ‘Treeology’ exhibition. There is much to learn about these amazing living beings that shelter and shade us, outlive and outgrow us,” said Arboretum Director Peter J. Olin. The “Treeology” exhibition, running May 24-Oct. 12, will have four main components:
· Art ‘n’ Trees Trail. Eighteen juried public-art installations, situated along a 1.5-mile tree-lined loop trail, will celebrate the towering beauty and power of trees.
· Grown Home. This whimsical rustic, open-air retreat built of river birch logs contains “living” willow furnishings — all planted in place! They include a table and chairs, bedframe and bookshelf.
· Tree-mendous Trees. A living showcase of the Arboretum’s most outstanding trees and their stories, all shared through signage and an audio tour. See the tallest, oldest, weirdest trees on the Arboretum grounds, as well as favorite large and small tree introductions developed by university.
· Tree Discovery Zone. Learn all about arboreal wonders and how to care for them at this outdoor discovery lab. Check out the “right way/ wrong way” tree-planting demo for valuable tips.
Treeology sponsors include Bailey Nurseries, The Toro Company, Xcel Energy and the Lake Minnetonka Garden Club. Promotional partners include KARE-11 TV, CBS Radio, Mpls/St. Paul Magazine and Comcast.
Corporate sponsors express enthusiasm for the “Treeology” theme:
“Trees add beauty to our landscape and they are a critical component to a healthy environment,” said Dave Sparby, acting president and CEO of Northern States Power Co.-Minnesota, an Xcel Energy company. “Xcel Energy maintains the highest standards of tree care as we work to ensure a safe and reliable electricity system for our customers. ‘Treeology’ is a great way to remind us that we need to work together to ensure trees remain a healthy part of our communities for generations to come.”
From The Toro Company: “As the Arboretum celebrates 50 years, The Toro Company is proud to continue its support of the summer exhibition. The ‘Treeology’ exhibition welcomes younger generations
to the Arboretum, giving them exposure to the natural environment and teaching the value of conserving outdoor environments,” said Stacy Bogart, director of the Toro Company Giving Program.
From Bailey Nurseries: “Bailey Nurseries is proud to support ‘Treeology.’ The simple truth is the world needs more trees. It’s great that the Arboretum is helping people become more aware of their benefits. And it’s a wonderful way to celebrate 50 years!” said Gordon Bailey Jr., owner of Bailey Nurseries Inc.
In addition to their support for “Treeology,” both Xcel Energy and Bailey Nurseries are sponsors for the Arboretum’s “Value of Trees” public education campaign which will attempt to encourage awareness of trees through ceremonial tree plantings in every Minnesota county, as well as educational literature.
The Treeology summer exhibition is free with paid general admission to the Arboretum ($7 adults, ages 15 and under free, members free). For information on related events and activities, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952-443-1400.
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the largest public garden in the Upper Midwest and a premier northern arboretum, is part of the College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota and developed as a community and national resource for horticultural and environmental information, research, and public education. It is located nine miles west of I-494 on Highway 5 in Chanhassen. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity employer and educator. The Arboretum is disability accessible; the buildings and terraces are smoke free.
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