Forests & Gardens is the member magazine for Holden Forests & Gardens, which includes the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland and the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland.
MISSION: Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty, and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities
VISION: All communities transformed into vibrant places where trees, plants, and people thrive
Editor & Director of Marketing: Jessica Schneider
Editor & Content Manager: David Lardakis
Photography: Gia Beggiani, Audriana Carmona, Albert Jackson, Beth Kelly, David Lardakis, Ferole Parmalee, Bob Perkoski, Stefanie Verish
Forests & Gardens plants and browse a digital map to locate them.
Forests & Gardens (ISSN 2474-6371) is a class and events magazine published quarterly by Holden Forests & Gardens, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, Ohio 44094-5172.
Periodicals postage paid at Mentor, Ohio and additional offices.
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Holden Forests & Gardens
9500 Sperry Road Kirtland, Ohio 44094-5172
Huelani Mei shares the details behind her striking Forest Forms sculptures as well as her experiences as an artist. Plus the history of the Japanese Garden.
Discover what summer flowers you can find at Holden Arboretum and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.
Learn how Working Woods Hub promotes healthy forests, plus how research at Holden Arboretum is shaping the future of Ohio’s forests.
Find out more about the variety of ways the experts at Holden Forests & Gardens are contributing to the community and helping young minds grow.
behind the scenes on what you can discover on the Lake Erie Bird Trail.
See how Holden Forests & Garden’s rare plant committee works to protect precious parts of nature.
Mark your calendar for these memorable events.
Welcome
Dear HF&G Friends,
Summer is a time of vibrant transformation at Holden Forests & Gardens, where nature unfurls in full splendor and invites us to explore, discover and celebrate the beauty of the season. Whether you find joy in wandering through lush gardens, experiencing new exhibits or engaging with interactive programs, we have something for everyone this summer.
One of the season’s highlights at Cleveland Botanical Garden is the new Hive Maze and live bee hives in the Hershey Children’s Garden. These immersive experiences offer a fascinating look into the world of pollinators and their critical role in our ecosystems. Kids and adults alike can navigate the maze, learn about bee behavior and observe these incredible creatures in action.
This summer also marks a momentous occasion at the Botanical Garden — the 50th anniversary of our beloved Japanese Garden. To honor this milestone, we are hosting a special exhibit called Between Water & Stone, featuring an exquisite display of bonsai trees, a traditional art form that mirrors the harmony and tranquility of Japanese landscapes. The Japanese Garden has long been a place of peace and contemplation, and we invite you to be part of this golden anniversary as we pay tribute to its enduring beauty.
At Holden Arboretum, we are thrilled to present Forest Forms, our newest summer exhibit. This unique installation weaves together the natural beauty of the Arboretum with thought-provoking sculptures and stories that highlight the relationship between art and nature. As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll encounter pieces that inspire reflection and curiosity — bringing the landscape to life in an entirely new way.
In addition to these exciting experiences, our summer programming is in full swing! From hands-on workshops to guided walks and family-friendly activities, there are countless ways to deepen your connection with nature. Check out page 21 for more details.
For those interested in conservation and forest sustainability, I encourage you to read the inspiring story of Working Woods on page 12. This vital program demonstrates how thoughtful forest management can support both biodiversity and human needs — showcasing a path toward a greener future.
Finally, we’d like to introduce you to Flora Finder, our new woody-plant identification tool, featured on page 4. This innovative resource makes discovering and learning about the amazing plant collections at our campuses easier than ever, helping you become a more informed and confident nature enthusiast.
As summer unfolds, I invite you to immerse yourself in all that Holden Forests & Gardens has to offer. Whether you’re marveling at summer blooms, exploring our miles of trails or discovering a new favorite tree, there’s magic waiting for you at every turn.
Thank you for being part of our community. Your generosity fuels our mission to connect people with the wonder, beauty and value of plants and trees and inspires action for healthy Northeast Ohio communities. We can’t wait to see you this season!
Ed Moydell President & CEO
Bringing the Forest to Your Fingertips
Flora Finder will help you learn about Holden Forests & Gardens plants and browse a digital map to locate them.
By Tom Arbour, Curator of Living Collections
Scan the QR code to try it out!
Recently, long-time Holden Forests & Gardens employee and now retiree Brian Parsons reached out to me after he heard about Flora Finder.
He said, “I still remember at the start of the computer age, Mr. Norweb (R. Henry Norweb, Director of the Arboretum from 1959-1983) saying that the dream was for a visitor to easily find any plant they wanted to see in our collections.” That’s why we created Flora Finder — we have thousands of plants in the collection at three main campuses, and before Flora Finder, it was difficult for our visitors, staff, scientists and horticulturists across the globe to access information about our collection.
Whether you are on site or at home, you’ll be able to learn about the plants we grow by browsing a digital map on your phone or computer. In addition to the public Flora Finder app, the technology we have gained will help us communicate across departments and campuses to make data-driven decisions about plants, utilities, buildings, land use and more.
In addition, the technology has streamlined the curation team’s documentation of the living collection. It is now faster to map plants, and we have replaced pencil and paper with iPads. This eliminates time spent entering data into a computer — now that the same information can be entered directly in the field.
How was it funded? Who helped create it?
In November 2022, an HF&G team applied for a Museums for America grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. We were awarded $245,000 in August 2023 and have been working on the project ever since. Our key consultants included Blue Raster, a geospatial consulting firm based in Arlington, VA, and Mike O’Neal, the developer of BG-Base, our plant records system. Our horticulture, marketing, education, guest services and research teams had significant input on early versions of Flora Finder and helped the development team make it the best product it could be.
How can I access it?
Flora Finder is a web application, meaning you use it in a web browser, either on your computer, phone or tablet. We have created several places on the HF&G website where you can access Flora Finder, and we will be placing QR codes on our campuses where you can use it with your mobile device.
How would I use it?
There are two basic ways to use Flora Finder. If you’re on campus, you can use Flora Finder to explore the plants that are around you. As you zoom in to your location — indicated by a blue dot on the map — you’ll see magenta dots with labels surrounding you. Those are the trees and other woody plants. To learn about herbaceous plants, click on a garden bed, and you’ll be given a list of names of the plants in that bed.
If you’re off campus, Flora Finder’s search provides an easy way to find the plant, or types of plants, you are looking for. Maybe you love paperbark maple, Acer griseum. Execute the search by typing enter, and the thousands of dots will be filtered down to a few of the maples you are interested in. The ability to simplify the living collection based on your interest in a particular type of plants, or a singular species or accession, is what makes Flora Finder powerful.
In addition, when you click on each individual plant point, you can find more information about that plant, including its scientific name, how we acquired the plant, whether it is of wild provenance, and where in the world it is native.
Flora Finder brings to life a decades-old dream — making our incredible Living Collection accessible to anyone, anywhere. Whether you're visiting one of our campuses, exploring from home or working behind the scenes, Flora Finder connects you more deeply to the plants you love and helps our team care for them more efficiently. Your membership fuels innovation like this. Thank you for growing with us.
Flora Finder brings to life a decades-old dream — making our incredible Living Collection accessible to anyone, anywhere.
and resilient eastern hemlock. Cradled in a cone that weathered the wind and the rain, I was collected by careful hands. Those hands belonged to HF&G’s Forest Health Coordinator, Dr. Rachel Kappler. She knew I would be an important tool for aiding my species’ conservation. To give me the best chance of survival, she passed me along to a friend.
That friend was Kim Lessman, seed keeper of the Holden Arboretum Seed Bank. Kim placed me gently among hundreds of others. With the help of long-time volunteer , I was cleaned up and moved to a new home, secure behind lock and key. Locust, hemlock, bitternut hickory and many other seeds shared this home. They were all harshly aware of the pests and disease lurking outside. We waited with confidence, knowing our opportunity to support the restoration of forests in the Great Lakes region would soon come. There, I felt the hush of cold storage, the weight of waiting, but I didn’t mind. Somewhere deep in my memory — an ancient whisper passed down through rings and roots — I knew that trees must be patient.
Then one day, warmth returned. I found myself nestled in rich soil at the Holden Nursery, where water sang softly against my shell. Then — crack! I split apart, sending a thread of root searching downward. A sliver of green reaching up. Under the steady hands and watchful eyes
exhilaration, growing tall enough to know the sky.
To my surprise, another journey was still to come. I was lifted from the nursery, my roots bundled in damp earth, and carried to Brainard Fen, a beautiful wetland overseen by the Holden Conservation Team. The soil here had stories to tell. Farming and logging in decades past left this land yearning for a new life. The immature trees around me were not immediately welcoming. Jake Conrad, Director of Land & Tree Care, assured me this was a good home as they lovingly planted me. As my roots touched the ground, the earth welcomed me home.
Holden Collections Team came often, measuring my height, noting the spread of my branches, ensuring I thrived. I heard them speak of pests that troubled my kin, of climates shifting like Ethan Johnson,
. I appreciated the way he examined my admiration in his eyes. He came to large pole of sorts,
jotting down a few numbers then moving on to the next woody plant.
Months turned into years, and I continued to make warm-bodied friends. Each summer, the high-pitched squeals and soft giggles meant the mini humans were back for another visit. Holden’s Youth Engagement expert, Dana Lettl, brought the little ones to see me each year, boasting of my humble upbringing and ascension to minor stardom. I could not understand their words, but their smiling faces said it all. Dana taught them about my ability to provide clean air and homes for animals. Some yawned. A few of them would sit at my base, finding shade under my growing canopy. I was content.
Then came the researchers, asking questions only trees could answer. They studied my growth, my resilience, the timing of my needles shedding. They spoke of the future,
be resistant to pests. I listened, as all trees do, knowing that wisdom was not in speaking but in growing.
And so I stood, rooted in the land, a proud member of this young forest. I was a seed no longer, but I remembered. I remembered the hands that had held me, the voices that had measured my growth, the whispered promise that I would be part of something larger than myself. And in the quiet hush of the fen, as the wind rustled through my branches, I whispered back.
“I am making a difference.”
MEET THE STAFF
David Lardakis is the Content Marketing Manager at Holden Forests & Gardens. He leads storytelling strategies that connect people to the wonder, beauty and value of the natural world. When he’s not crafting content, he’s probably getting lost (sometimes purposefully) on a hiking trail.
Ask the Artist
Huelani Mei
Learn more about artist, Huelani Mei by scanning the QR code:
If you’ve visited Holden Arboretum lately, you’ve likely noticed the striking Forest Forms sculptures by artist Huelani Mei. We caught up with her to learn more about her career and creative process.
Tell us about your background and what's behind your interest in outdoor sculpture?
Creating art has always been the driving force in my life. I knew right after graduating high school that I wanted a career rooted in art. I earned a BFA in Sculpture from Georgia State University, and during my time there, I became fascinated by public art — especially its ability to transform spaces and invite people to interact with it in unexpected ways. What drew me specifically to outdoor sculpture was its power to exist beyond the walls of a traditional gallery. There’s something meaningful about creating work that lives out in the open, becoming part of the landscape and part of people’s everyday experiences. I’m especially interested in how sculpture can spark an unexpected dialogue with both the environment and the community around it.
The sculptures in Forest Forms are big, bold and bright, but a lot of work goes into each sculpture before the piece is completed. How do they go from idea to exhibit?
Each sculpture starts with a sketch — usually loose, intuitive drawings that capture the energy or movement I’m inspired by when I’m out in nature. From there, I create small-scale mockups to help me understand the structure and shape more tangibly. Once the idea is refined, I begin drawing the forms to scale directly on the ground.
Once I have a clear build plan for each sculpture, I create a schedule based on my deadlines and the complexity of each piece. For Forest Forms, I started with the sculptures I knew how to build, and as my skills improved, I gained the confidence to tackle the larger, more intense sculptures. I would complete one sculpture, handle all the finishing work, take it to powder coating, and then pack the pieces until the entire exhibit was ready.
Interestingly, I never unpacked the sculptures once I got them back from powder coating, so the first time they were displayed was the first time I really got to see the entirety of the show!
What would you say to someone trying to break into a career where people like them usually aren’t seen?
My advice would be: Believe in yourself — because if you don't, then no one else will. Your uniqueness is your power, and it can be the inspiration for those who want to be in your shoes. Be the person who leads others, and find or create a community that supports your growth. Always stay humble, and put positive energy into being different.
BEAUTIFUL
Reflections
The Japanese Garden has been delighting visitors for 50 years.
The seeds of something extraordinary were planted in 1916, when Cleveland made history by founding the nation's first civic garden — the Garden Center of Cleveland. From humble beginnings in an empty boathouse on Wade Lagoon in 1930, we settled into our current home on East Boulevard after a rather disastrous 1959 flood. By 1966, the new garden center was open for visitors.
Let’s zoom in on March 1959. That’s when a group of passionate women led by Mrs. Ernest E. Wunderly, established Cleveland Chapter Twenty of Ikebana International. With just 15 charter members, their passion for Japanese flower arranging quickly spread, sparking local programs and exhibitions that introduced the quiet power of ikebana to new audiences.
By 1965, their ambitions had outgrown the flower vase. Led by Mrs. Stewart Armington Jr. and Mrs. Harley Lee, the Japanese Garden committee began envisioning a garden that embodied their art and values. After scouting sites across the city, they chose the Cleveland Botanical Garden — then the Garden Center of Greater Cleveland — for its natural topography and need for renewal, making it the ideal fit.
Design concepts came from three sources, but it was David A. Slawson’s proposal that captured the spirit of the project. Trained in Oriental philosophy and mentored by Japanese garden master Professor Kinsaku Nakane, Slawson brought deep cultural insight to his work. His vision blended two beloved styles: the karesansui, or dry landscape garden introduced by
Zen Buddhist priests in the 14th century, and the tea garden, popularized in the 1500s.
“Basically, it is a dry landscape garden to be viewed from the stone-paved area,” Slawson explained. “The paving arrangement and trellis serve to frame the view and offer an interesting walk through the garden while enriching the meaningfulness of the composition.” Classic features of the tea garden — a stepping stone path, stone water basin and lantern — were thoughtfully woven into the design.
With construction by Anthony Chiancone Landscape and Nursery Inc., the garden took shape — a quiet, contemplative space tucked in the heart of Cleveland.
On May 20, 1975, the Japanese Garden was officially dedicated in a ceremony graced by His Excellency, Ambassador Masao Kanazawa, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, members of Ikebana Chapter Twenty and their president, Mrs. Walter L. Pogalies.
In a letter received just days after the event, Ambassador Kanazawa wrote:
“I was greatly impressed by the spirit of your organization in promoting the goodwill and mutual understanding between the American and Japanese people. It was our first visit to the lovely city of Cleveland and was also a very memorable one.”
From its early civic roots to the tranquil paths of the Japanese Garden, this story is one of community, culture and the quiet beauty that blooms when vision meets dedication.
This summer, explore Between Water and Stone — a special exhibit honoring 50 years of our Japanese Garden. Rooted in traditional values, it offers a peaceful opportunity to reflect, recharge and reconnect with nature.
Scan the QR code to learn more.
From left to right: Mrs. Louise Armington: Chairman, Japanese Garden Committee, Mrs. Sheila Pogalies: President, Ikebana International Cleveland Chapter Twenty, Hon. Masao Kanazawa: Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, Madame Kanazawa
Summer Flowers
at Holden Arboretum
Display Garden
Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden
Helen S. Layer Rhododendron Garden
Torch Lily Kniphofia ‘ Poco Orange’
Royal Catchfly Silene regia
Rose Mallow Hibiscus ‘ Berry Awesome’
Summer Flowers
at Cleveland Botanical Garden
C.K. Patrick Perennial Border
Hershey Children’s Garden
Mary Ann Sears Swetland Rose Garden
Asian Trumpet Lily Lilium ‘ Friso’
Cup Flower Silphium perforliatum
Rosa Chihuly®
Working Woods Hub: Partnering with You to Grow Resilient Forests
By Becah Troutman and the Working Woods Hub team
Forests are a vital part of Ohio’s landscape — and our legacy. But they are also under increasing pressure from invasive species, pests and pathogens, climate change, development, and unsustainable management practices. These challenges are especially pronounced in Ohio, where an estimated 85% of forests are privately owned. That means the future of our forests depends not only on science and policy but on the thousands of landowners who care for the woods in their backyards and beyond.
The Working Woods Learning Forest at Holden Arboretum, established in 2017, was created as a demonstration site where landowners and professionals could see forest management in action and learn how to care for their own unique woods. Building on this strong foundation, we saw the need to expand our impact beyond the Arboretum’s boundaries.
In 2024, with support from a $1.8 million USDA Forest Service grant, we launched the Working Woods Hub at Holden Arboretum — a regional effort growing a network of people, programs and practical tools designed to address the realworld challenges of forest stewardship and land management. Our overarching goal is clear: To empower people to manage, protect and create resilient forests in Ohio. We do this through
four core components: outreach and events, consulting forestry services, the Working Woods Learning Forest and the Holden Arboretum Seed Bank.
Community Outreach
Outreach and education are at the heart of the Working Woods Hub. Through tours, seasonal workshops, webinars, community events and our annual Working Woods Field Day, we connect landowners, natural resource professionals and community members with the information and experiences they need to better understand forest ecology and management.
Our outreach team strives to equip landowners with the knowledge and tools they need to effectively manage their forests in ways that are reciprocally beneficial for both the landowner and the forest they steward. Our programming covers topics such as woodland stewardship basics, invasive species management, timber sale administration and cultivation of non-timber forest products. If there is a forest related topic you want to know more about, chances are we can either teach you about it or connect you to someone who can!
Consulting Forestry
In 2024, Holden expanded its services by launching Holden
TOP LEFT TO RIGHT: Kim Lessman, Valerie McCauley, Jessica Miller Mecaskey, Annie Weight, and Beck Swab
LOWER LEFT TO RIGHT: Patrick O'Reilly, Albert Jackson, Becah Troutman, Katie Stuble, and Anna Carlson
Arboretum Consulting Forestry — a program designed to provide personalized, one-on-one support to landowners throughout the region. This represents the exciting and natural next step for our work in forest management and outreach: to take our expertise and lessons learned to private landowners which steward Northeast Ohio’s woodlands.
Whether you’re dealing with invasive species, curious about improving your wildlife habitat, or ready to develop a fullfledged forest management plan, our consulting foresters are here to help. Services include site visits, customized land management plans, forest farming consultation & technical assistance, carbon market enrollment, timber harvest administration and more!
Our team can help you navigate big decisions, make the most of your forest’s potential, and chart a course that balances ecology, enjoyment and economic value.
Working Woods Learning Forest
At the core of the Hub lies the Working Woods Learning Forest, a 67-acre demonstration site within Holden Arboretum that has served as a living laboratory since 2017.
Here, we show how sustainable forest practices look in real time. Landowners, forestry professionals, and the general public are invited to experience a working woodland firsthand through tours and programs. Management techniques demonstrated at the site include:
• Single-tree selection harvests to improve stand health and biodiversity
• Timber stand improvement cuts that encourage the growth of desired species
• Invasive species removal to improve native regeneration
The Learning Forest hosts many of our outreach events and serves as a research hub where students, professionals, and scientists gather data on forest dynamics, soil quality, understory vegetation, and even native bat populations. This research helps shape regional best practices and ensures our recommendations are rooted in science.
Holden Arboretum Seed Bank
The seed bank is a support pillar of the Working Woods Hub. It serves as a source of genetically diverse native trees and shrubs, offering locally adapted seedlings to support reforestation and restoration projects. As more landowners create climate-smart forest management plans, the Seed Bank is preparing to provide the high-quality seed or plants needed to bring those plans to life.
Together We Grow
The challenges facing our region’s forests are real — but so are the opportunities. With the Working Woods Hub, Holden Forests & Gardens is building a supportive, science-informed and people-powered network to help meet those challenges head-on. By partnering with landowners, sharing knowledge, and connecting support and resources we’re planting the seeds for a healthier, more resilient forest landscape across northeast Ohio and beyond. If you’re ready to take the next step in caring for your woods — or just want to learn more — we’re here to help. By working together, we can turn today's forest challenges into tomorrow’s success stories.
Former NOWCorps member Rosana Villafan shows off one of our Non-TimberForest-Product (NTFP) demonstration sites at Working Woods, Shitake Mushroom logs
LEARN MORE
Scan the QR code to access resources and learn more.
Working Woods Site Visits: communityforestry@holdenfg.org
Science in the Working Woods Learning Forest
How research at the Holden Arboretum is shaping the future of Ohio forests.
By Anna Funk, Science Communication Specialist
At first glance, the Working Woods Learning Forest might look like just another quiet patch of forest at the Holden Arboretum. But this unassuming stand of trees is quietly revolutionizing how we understand and manage forests. It’s serving as both a demonstration site and a living laboratory: a place where forest management practices are put on display and, importantly, studied.
In recent years, researchers have begun to publish the first wave of findings from this long-term project. The results are already shaping our understanding of what works in Northeast Ohio forests, particularly when it comes to managing invasive species, improving native plant diversity and helping our forests grow stronger and healthier. Whether a woodland owner wants to maintain a peaceful nature retreat or a lucrative timber investment, these approaches help ensure forests remain vibrant and valuable for generations to come.
Here’s a look at what researchers have uncovered so far — thanks to the trees (and people) of Working Woods.
Killing trees to save the forest? It’s complicated
One of the most visible forest management techniques being tested in Working Woods Learning Forest is girdling — a method used to slowly kill trees by removing a strip of bark all the way around the trunk. It might seem harsh, but the goal is to mimic the natural decline of older trees — which aren’t present in this ‘young’ forest — to open the canopy and let in light, creating opportunities for new growth.
Graduate researcher Samuel Harbol tracked the effects of girdling over three years, measuring everything from how much light made it through the canopy to how quickly surrounding trees grew. His results confirmed that it’s a slow shift, but one with lasting impact. Unlike cutting down trees, girdling is a
The study showed that forest management doesn’t just change the structure; it can change which species succeed, and how the whole ecosystem functions.
gentler nudge to the ecosystem. It creates standing deadwood that wildlife love, and sets the stage for long-term change. Just one species, elm, seemed to benefit in the short term, growing faster when nearby competitors were girdled. For others, the story is still unfolding.
Invasive shrubs are stubborn, but containable
If you’ve ever tried to rid a property — or your garden — of an invasive plant, you know how relentless they can be. At the Holden Arboretum, non-native shrubs like glossy buckthorn and multiflora rose are among the worst offenders. They crowd out native plants, block sunlight from reaching the ground, and form thickets so dense that young trees can’t get a foothold.
But there’s hope: A recent study found that while it takes a substantial initial effort to knock these invaders back, the workload drops sharply after the first two years. In a five-year experiment, researchers tracked the hours land stewards spent battling non-native shrubs. As expected, it was laborintensive at first, especially in heavily invaded areas. But by year three, it became a steady, ongoing — but manageable — effort. It’s encouraging news for woodland stewards facing a wall of shrubs.
A softer forest edge can be a richer one
At the edge of Working Woods Learning Forest, another experiment tested a practice called edge feathering. The idea is to replace abrupt forest-field boundaries with a more gradual transition — picture a buffer of patchy shrubs and small trees. These softer edges can support a greater variety of plant and animal life.
By thinning the canopy and planting native shrubs, researchers found that native plant diversity increased significantly. In just over three years, feathered edges had twice as many plant species as untouched control plots, with higher diversity scores and a broader mix of species — exactly the kind of complexity that helps forests stay healthy over time. One of the biggest drivers of this change was sunlight: Feathered edges created patchier light, which supported a broader range of plant types.
Managing forests from the ground up
A comprehensive study by graduate researcher Alexa Wagner looked at how canopy thinning and invasive shrub removal affected forest regeneration.
She found that the combination of thinning and invasive removal promoted new seedlings, resulting in an increased number of species. It also changed which species did best: Early successional species like tulip poplars and red maples thrived in the more open conditions, while others, like black cherry, grew more slowly. The study showed that forest management doesn’t just change the structure, it can change which species succeed, and how the whole ecosystem functions.
Looking ahead
Working Woods Learning Forest is still in its early years, scientifically speaking. Forests change slowly, over years and decades. But with each new dataset, we’re gaining a clearer picture of how to help them thrive amid challenges like invasive species, climate shifts and declining native species.
Behind every experiment in Working Woods are the researchers in Dr. Katie Stuble’s lab and the Community Forestry Department, designing the studies and collecting the data. Holden’s land stewards do the hands-on work. And thanks to the outreach team, what’s learned in Working Woods doesn’t stay there — it’s shared with landowners and land managers across the region.
And there’s more to come. In one area of Working Woods, staff have planted an old field with trees expected to thrive in Ohio’s future climate. The trees are sourced from further south and west, where conditions are already warmer and drier — a proactive approach to climate resilience. In another area, hybrid American chestnut trees, developed by the American Chestnut Foundation, have been planted in sunny gaps left by a timber harvest. Once a cornerstone of eastern forests, American chestnuts were all but entirely wiped out by blight — but these new hybrids could offer a path toward reforestation. Both of these plantings are being carefully monitored. In time, they too may offer valuable insight into how we can foster healthy forests.
With each new dataset collected by the team at Working Woods, we’re gaining a clearer picture of how to help forests thrive amid challenges.
Tree Corps CREW program
By Amanda Wood, Urban Community Forester
As Holden Forests & Gardens works with communities to plant more trees, the demand for trained tree care professionals grows too. HF&G works to meet this need through our Tree Corps CREW (Cleveland Regional Experiential Work) program, an entry-level urban forestry and arboriculture workforce development program aimed at providing opportunities in underrepresented and overlooked communities.
Tree Corps CREW’s goal is to provide valuable skills and experiences to propel people into meaningful careers. Not only that, but we hope participants advocate for trees in their communities.
Since 2018, this program has trained 34 budding arborists and planted 1,278 trees across 13 communities — thanks to strong partnerships with environmental organizations that offer both planting opportunities and expert guidance.
Last fall, our Tree Corps CREW teamed up with Slavic Village’s Green Team and Bartlett Tree Experts to plant 14 trees throughout Slavic Village. They didn’t just plant — they connected with residents receiving the trees, making the experience a powerful reminder of the real, personal impact their work has in the community.
The future of tree care and community work is green. Our upcoming season will provide more opportunities for budding arborists to grow, plant more trees in high need areas and create a greener tomorrow.
Growing Young Minds
By Mary Jaworski, Academic Programs Coordinator
Imagine a classroom where tiny hands explore leaves, seeds and soil, and young minds light up with discovery. That’s the inspiration behind Sprouting Young Scientists (SPYS), a preschool outreach program that Holden Arboretum began in 2017 with around 300 students. Today it is closer to 700.
The program includes a visit from a Holden Forests & Gardens instructor in fall, winter and spring to tap into the magic of each season, guiding children through nature’s yearly cycle. Rooted in literacy concepts, the stories, observation and hands-on exploration in SPYS turns seasonal changes into science adventures. With the help of a friendly mascot — Sammy the Scientist Squirrel — students are gently introduced to new scientific concepts in a way that feels familiar, fun and approachable.
From sorting seeds, counting leaves and planting peas to creating a home in sensory snow for Sammy, SPYS helps young learners deepen their understanding of how plants live, grow and change. Each session wraps up with circle time, where every child receives their own copy of the season’s featured non-fiction book, along with a take-home science activity to continue their learning beyond the classroom.
By the end of the seasonal visits, children not only build stronger literacy and plant science skills, but also grow in confidence, critical thinking and their relationship with the natural world.
Developing Roots
By Tom Masaveg, Community Engagement Education Coordinator
Holden Forests & Gardens is coming to a location near you! You may have seen us around Northeast Ohio at cultural festivals, resource fairs and civic events. Our amazing team of volunteers, interns and staff is out year-round, bringing mission-driven activities to the community.
The next time you're out where people gather, keep one eye open for our logo and stop by to say hello. You’ll find fun craft projects, interactive games, helpful resources — and opportunities to get involved in the impactful work we do to highlight the many benefits that nature provides.
Supporting our mission is as easy as taking part in our quick, engaging assessment activities. For example, mark the tree ring that matches your birth year — we’ll use this info to identify which age groups we’re reaching and which ones we might be missing. You can also let us know how satisfied you are with the green space in your neighborhood by helping us color our map. Your feedback helps us plan where to focus our outreach next.
Your voice truly makes a difference. By participating, you’re helping us grow deeper roots in the community and ensuring more people can connect with nature.
Coming Together to Care for Northeast Ohio Woods
By Anna Carlson, Working Woods Outreach Coordinator
For years, Holden Forests & Gardens has cared for the diverse landscapes of the Holden Arboretum. Forestry techniques, first utilized in 2018, are key in managing the 67-acre Working Woods Learning Forest. In 2022, the inaugural Working Woods Field Day welcomed private landowners on guided tours to explore how these practices help grow resilient forests. This remains a cornerstone event, held each year on the first Saturday in June.
Yet, responsible woodland management doesn’t just happen in the forest — it’s a community effort. Forests thrive when neighbors, landowners and professionals come together to care for the land, which is why we’re expanding our outreach beyond the woods and into the community.
This spring, our Outreach Team brought the Caring for Your Woods: First Steps program to libraries and community spaces in Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake and Cuyahoga counties. More than 130 landowners attended, connected with a forester, picked up resources and made plans for taking the next steps in caring for their woods.
Now we’re gearing up for county fair season — look for us in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties this summer. We’ll be the ones in green asking, “What do you love about your woods?” Next up are skillsbuilding workshops for summer and fall and webinars this winter. No matter the season, there’s always something to do when it comes to caring for your woods!
Want to stay in the loop? Email acarlson@holdenfg.org to join our mailing list and hear about our upcoming programs.
Take Flight
Discover the Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail
By Beck Thompson, Education Manager
The Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail is a birdwatcher’s paradise, stretching along Ohio’s northern coast and offering a wide range of habitats and bird species. Divided into seven loops, the trail highlights the state’s ecological diversity. The Cleveland Area Loop is especially notable, featuring 28 top birding sites, including the Holden Arboretum.
Holden Arboretum: A Highlight of the Cleveland Area Loop Holden Arboretum is one of Northeast Ohio’s natural treasures. Spanning 3,500 acres, it supports over 240 bird species, including regional rarities and important nesters. Visitors can explore deep hemlock gorges, ornamental conifer collections and diverse natural habitats that attract birds year-round.
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Birding at Holden Arboretum Throughout the Seasons
> SUMMER brings a flurry of bird activity. Scarlet Tanagers, Indigo Buntings and Eastern Wood-Pewees are common, while ponds and streams attract herons and other waterfowl. Raptors like Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks can be seen soaring above.
> FALL is migration season, offering sightings of thrushes, sparrows and a vibrant mix of warblers like the Yellow-rumped and Palm Warblers. The arboretum’s variety of habitats serves as critical stopover points for migrating birds, all set against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage.
> WINTER offers its birding rewards. Species like the Northern Cardinal, Black-capped Chickadee and White-breasted Nuthatch stay active, while Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls occasionally appear. Corning Lake often attracts migrating waterfowl such as Ring-necked Ducks and Buffleheads as winter ends.
> SPRING is one of the most exciting seasons for birders. Migratory warblers return, including Black-throated Green and Hooded Warblers. Nesting species like Blue-headed Vireos and Dark-eyed Juncos settle in, while blooming flowers draw in hummingbirds and Orioles.
Enhance Your Birding Experience
To get the most out of your birding adventure, pick up the updated Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail Guidebook, available for purchase at Holden Arboretum. This invaluable resource includes detailed site descriptions, maps, birding tips, and species highlights — perfect for both seasoned birders and newcomers.
Whether you're a local enthusiast or a visitor, the Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail is a journey through some of the state’s most beautiful and bird-rich landscapes. With the Cleveland Area Loop’s mix of urban and natural settings — and Holden Arboretum as a standout destination — you’re guaranteed a memorable birding experience. Start your journey today, and let the birds lead the way!
Beck Thompson is the Education Manager at Holden Forests & Gardens and has dedicated her career (1999 – present) to school-aged children and life-long learners. Her enthusiasm for the natural world has kindled a sense of exploration, discovery and a deeper appreciation for the environment. Her passion for bird watching drove her to become a self-taught local bird expert. She has served as President on local boards, including Blackbrook Audubon Society and Cleveland Regional Council of Science Teachers.
In the Presence of Rarity
Holden Forests & Garden’s rare plant committee works to protect precious parts of nature.
By Becah Troutman, Working Woods Hub Manager
The natural areas of the Holden Arboretum are home to some of the rarest plant species in Ohio- resilient treasures that thrive in unique habitats. Sometimes these rare species are showy and beautiful flowers while other times they are understated and known only to those that study them. Often hidden away in secluded ravines, wetlands or shaded forest slopes, they grow in conditions so specific that only a few places can support them. Entering these habitats can feel like stepping into another region — so unique that it’s hard to believe it’s still within Ohio.
Because of the sensitivity of these environments and species, Holden Forests & Gardens has created an internal rare plant committee that collaborates to discuss the management of our native threatened and endangered plants.
Collaboration is one of our organization’s greatest strengths. With so many departments working together, it becomes possible to approach rare plant conservation holistically. The committee brings together horticulturists, curators, researchers and conservationists from across HF&G to prioritize species and explore strategies for restoration, both in situ (on site, within their natural habitat) and ex situ (offsite, in protected cultivation).
Propagators at HF&G grow rare plants from seed or cuttings, creating backup populations that reduce the risk of total loss. Horticulturists care for specialized garden spaces where these species are protected, studied and — when appropriate — shared
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with the public in a controlled, educational setting. Collections staff document these plants in detailed databases, ensuring long-term tracking and careful stewardship. Researchers develop science-based strategies for the plants’ long-term viability. Seeds can be securely stored in the Holden Arboretum Seed Bank, preserving genetic material for future restoration. Meanwhile, the conservation department remains focused on protecting and restoring the wild habitats where these plants naturally occur — ensuring that they not only survive but continue to thrive in their native ecosystems.
Some of these species have become personal favorites among the staff — like checking in on an old friend. One such example is bristly sarsaparilla (Aralia hispida). Once thought to no longer exist in Ohio, this plant is a favorite because it is a success story exemplifying the holistic approach HF&G is employing. At one point, the population had completely disappeared, but it has since reappeared, the area restored, and the plant propagated to go into collections. With bristly stems and fireworks of small white flowers, it’s as interesting to look at as it is meaningful to protect.
Together, this network of expertise creates a safety net for the rare flora found in the Arboretum’s natural areas. By combining field-based habitat protection with propagation and preservation, Holden Forests & Gardens is building a model for long-term species preservation. These efforts ensure that rare plants remain part of the landscape, not just as isolated specimens, but as living participants in a healthy and diverse ecological community.
Becah Troutman helps landowners cultivate resilient forests through outreach and consulting forestry. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biology and nearly a decade of experience in natural resource management, she specializes in habitat restoration, forest stewardship, and strengthening connections between people and the land.
Programs
First Fridays: Core Natural Areas Tour
July 11, 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Adult
$7 per member, $22 per nonmember
Wine & Cheese Night Hike
July 18, 8 – 11 p.m.
Adult, 21+
$30 per member, $45 per nonmember
Little Mountain Hike
July 19, August 17, September 28
11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Adult
$10 per member, $22 per nonmember
Herbal First Aid
July 26, 1-4 p.m.
Adult
$30 per member, $45 per nonmember
First Fridays: Butterfly Garden Tour
August 1, 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Adult
$7 per member, $22 per nonmember
Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers
August 2, 11 a.m. - noon
Families, ages 4+
Free per member child,
$10 per nonmember child
$10 per member adult,
$20 per nonmember adult
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Nature Photography on Your iPhone
August 9, 4 - 7:30 p.m.
Adult
$45 per member, $60 per nonmember
Stebbins Gulch Hike
August 10, September 14, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Adult
$12 per member, $22 per nonmember
First Fridays: Wildflower Garden Tour
September 5, 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Adult
$7 per member, $22 per nonmember
Wine & Cheese Night Hike
September 12, September TBD 8 – 11 p.m.
Adult, 21+
$30 per member, $45 per nonmember
Nature’s Midas Touch:
Dyeing with Goldenrod
September 16, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Adult, teens 16+
$28 per member, $38 per nonmember
Fall Foray with the Ohio Mushroom Society
September 27, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Adult, teens 16+ with accompanying adult
$30 per member, $40 per nonmember
Cleveland Botanical Garden
Revealing the Secrets:
Gan Ryū Tei in Context
July 12 , 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Adult
$10 per member, $25 per nonmember
Try It: Sogetsu Ikebana!
July 19, 1:30 - 4 p.m.
Adult
$25 per member, $40 per nonmember
Japanese Pruning Basics
July 24, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Adult
$20 per member, $25 per nonmember
House Plant Kokedama
July 31, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Adult
$30 per member, $45 per nonmember
Shojoji Japanese Dancers: All Ages Performance
August 9, 1 - 2 p.m.
Families, ages 4+
$5 per member child, $10 per nonmember child
$15 per member adult, $25 per nonmember adult
Adults accompanying children are free of charge
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Advanced Japanese Pruning Workshop
August 11, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Adult, some pruning experience necessary $70 per member, $85 per nonmember
Creating with Flowers in the Ohara Ikebana Style
August 23, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Adult
$60 per member, $75 per nonmember
Indigo Dying Workshop with Shibori Resist
August 9, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Adult
$40 per member, $55 per nonmember
SUMMER 2025
Holden Arboretum
Events AT CLEVELAND BOTANICAL
GARDEN
GOURMETS AT THE GARDEN
JULY 3: Chef Eric Wells
JULY 24: Chef Ryan Matthew Boone
AUGUST 14: Chef Ricky Smith
SEPTEMBER 4: Spice Catering
6:30-7:30 p.m.
$25 nonmember adults, $15 member adults
YOGA IN THE GARDEN
Select Thursdays, June through September
Prices vary, visit holdenfg.org for full lineup. Join us for adult yoga, adaptive yoga, kids yoga and mat Pilates!
TUNES ON THE TERRACE
Every Thursday evening June through September (except August 21), 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Included with admission. See entertainment and food details on holdenfg.org.
FIT & FLORALS LADIES NIGHT
Friday, July 18, 6-9 p.m.
Tickets - $35 per person
Take your pick of high-energy workouts, rejuvenating yoga and an enchanting
sound bath under the stars. Enjoy tons of complimentary experience stations and shop from our favorite local businesses.
BETWEEN WATER & STONE CELEBRATION
Thursday, August 21, 6-9 p.m.
Included with admission. Learn origami and traditional Japanese dance from ShoJoJi Japanese dancers, then meet the horticulturist behind the renovation of the Japanese Garden.
BOOKS & BLOOMS
Saturday, September 20, 6-9 p.m. Sunday, September 21, noon-5 p.m.
SATURDAY TICKETS:
$20 nonmember adult, $10 member adult
SUNDAY TICKETS:
$20 nonmember adult, free for members
Discover a vibrant mix of book and plant-themed vendors in a one-ofa-kind celebration of reading and botanical beauty.
Daily Fun in the Hershey Children’s Garden
TUESDAY
Start with sunny yoga, enjoy story time in the treehouse, then explore pond life.
WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY
Get creative with garden-themed art, then go on a catch-andrelease bug hunt.
THURSDAY
Learn gardening skills and dive into pond discoveries.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
It’s Turtle Time! Meet our box turtle and learn all about shelled life.
Scan the QR code for more details on children’s garden programming.
Events AT THE HOLDEN ARBORETUM
MOVIE SCREENING WITH GREATER CLEVELAND URBAN FILM FESTIVAL
Saturday, July 12
Pack your popcorn and picnic blankets and settle into a movie night on the Arboretum grounds.
CONCERTS IN THE FOREST
July 16, 6-7:30 p.m. – Apostle Jones
August 6, 6-7:30 p.m. – Sam Hooper
Free for members, registration required
Enjoy live music in a gorgeous setting, great food, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and quality time with friends and family out in nature.
WELLNESS IN THE WOODS
July 23, 6-8 p.m.
$35 member, $45 nonmember
Reconnect with nature and yourself at Wellness in the Woods, a restorative evening of journaling, hiking, mindfulness, music and refreshing mocktails under the trees.
ADULT CAMPOUT
August 1-2
$35 member, $40 nonmember (pricing is per person)
Enjoy a 21+ camp experience at the Arboretum! Sit by a campfire and relax, take a guided sunset hike to the top of the Emergent Tower, or take part in our star-gazing program. Learn more at holdenfg.org.
FAMILY CAMPOUT
August 2-3
$35 member, $40 nonmember (pricing is per person)
Experience the Arboretum after hours! Explore the great outdoors and sleep beneath the stars and trees. Learn more at holdenfg.org.
NOTES OF NATURE WINE TASTING
August 20, 6-8 p.m.
$75 member, $85 nonmember
Spend time in one of the Arboretum’s most beautiful gardens during golden hour. Enjoy wine tasting and food stations while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
NEW! TRAILBLAZER 5K
Sunday, September 14
Just for Kids
Stop by the Corning Visitor Center for more details on these activities.
DISCOVERY PACKS
Grab a free backpack of fun guides and tools to explore nature your way. Available for check-out in Corning Visitor Center.
DROP-IN PROGRAMS
Free pop-up games, crafts and activities — no sign-up required!
Starting in June: Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m.
ROBERTA'S BIRD BLIND
Try your hand at familyfriendly birding! Located on Corning Lake.
FOREST FORMS
SCAVENGER HUNT
Can you find all the sculptures to unlock the secret message?
$35 member adult, $25 member child, $40 nonmember adult, $25 nonmember child
Lace up for a wildly scenic adventure at the Holden Arboretum. Every step comes with fresh air and forest views!
9500 Sperry Road
Kirtland, Ohio 44094 holdenfg.org
Twilight at the Holden Arboretum
Presented by
Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025
4 – 7 p.m.
Join us for HF&G’s only fundraising event this year — an elegant al fresco dinner with a Plated Landscape menu and wine pairings prepared by local chef Ben Bebenroth of Spice Catering Co.
Twilight will celebrate and support HF&G’s mission and honor distinguished guests Jane Outcalt and Bill & Nancy Hendricks for their contributions.
Tickets and tables are available through sponsorship only. Contact Samantha Lengel, Director of Institutional Giving at slengel@holdenfg.org or at 216.707.2805 for information on sponsorship packages.
Forests & Gardens is the member magazine for Holden Forests & Gardens, which includes the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland and the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland.
MISSION: Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty, and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities
VISION: All communities transformed into vibrant places where trees, plants, and people thrive
