OSU Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

From Laura Deeter, Director of Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens:

I met Rich as a horticulture student at Ohio State University. His knowledge about plants was stunning to my student mind; he seemed to know everything and could speak for hours about plants.
I have many fond memories of him working with students in the gardens, showing them how to do various tasks, gently guiding them through the learning process. If I heard that big, deep voice of his, I tried to find a way to listen in, knowing I was going to learn something.
I ran into Rich recently at a conference and he said to me “Don’t screw up MY arboretum” (referencing Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens). Don’t you worry about that, dear Rich. I would never. I have great reverence for these trees and plants, as well as those that came before me, their knowledge and love for Chadwick Arboretum.
Rest in Peace, dear friend. Your memory lives on.

https://www.littletonandrue.com/obituaries/Richmond-Rich-Hobson-Pearson?obId=48518344&fbclid=IwY2xj…

Obituary information for Richmond "Rich" Hobson Pearson View Richmond "Rich" Hobson Pearson's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

No matter how many plants you have, you could always have just one…or two…more!🌻🌿🌱

Proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale Auction and Fundraiser go directly to The Ohio State Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens, Student organizations, and local businesses!

Members-Only Preview (join at the door!)
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.

Open to the Public
Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:00–6:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

More info: https://chadwickarboretum.osu.edu/events/spring-plant-sale-fundraiser-and-auction-1

Can you picture yourself at the 2026 Plant Sale? 📸

From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by more than 16,000 unique edible and ornamental plants ready to bring new life to your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, there’s something here waiting to catch your eye… and maybe your camera 

 Members-Only Preview (join at the door!)
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.

Open to the Public
Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:00–6:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

This 3-day annual Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser is your chance to explore, discover, and take home something special. Credit/debit cards only.

What an incredible Arbor Day celebration and awards event last Friday! It was a beautiful day filled with friends, awards, and of course the amazing cake made by JoAnn Wesner.

A special thank you to Steven Cothrel for his tree-riffic remarks and to the entire team for making the day such a success.

Award recipients are as follows:

Tree Hero Award: Jonathan Doenges, John Irwin, Aaron Rumbaugh, Kyle Albert

Chadwick Collaborator Award: Joe Carter, Petra Schmalbrock, Kirsten Packer

Aesculus Lifetime Achievement Award: Kathy Smith

Happy Volunteer Appreciation Week! 🌿 

We’d like to thank all of our Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens volunteers for the countless hours they dedicate to keeping our special place on campus so beautiful.  

With around 150 volunteers contributing more than 5,000 hours of their time and talent each year, your dedication truly makes a meaningful difference. Thank you for all that you do!

Celebrating today and every day🌎🌱Happy Earth Day!

Join us for a special Arbor Day Celebration!

Come celebrate with Chadwick Arboretum and the Tree Advisory Committee on April 24 from 10:00 am–11:30 am at the Kottman Hall Patio!

We will be recognizing this year’s Tree Hero Award, Chadwick Arboretum Collaborator Awards, and Aesculus Lifetime Achievement Awards!

Rain or shine, your presence is valued in supporting our mission for a greener future.

Learn more: https://chadwickarboretum.osu.edu/events/arbor-day-celebration-2

No pranks, only plants! 🌱🪴🌼

These April showers are no joke, but these blooms aren’t fooling anyone!

If you need a break from all the tricks this April 1, treat yourself to a trip to Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens.

Step into spring at the Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens!

Don’t miss our 3-day annual Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser, where you can explore a vibrant selection of botanical treasures. With more than 16,000 fresh, unique, and reliable edible and ornamental plants available, there’s something to inspire every plant lover.🌸
Credit/debit cards only.

For daily event activities, please visit: go.osu.edu/SpringPlantSale

Members Only (You can join at the door): Thursday, 5/14/26: 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Open to public: Friday, 5/15/26: 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 5/16/26: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m

Our happy place is removing invasive honeysuckle!🫶

Thank you to the for helping us remove invasives and plant more native plants at the arboretum!

The arrival of Spring brings change to the arboretum!

Renovation of the Chadwick Arboretum Trellis Entrance is currently underway.

Originally installed in 1980 and renovated in 1998, the Trellis Entrance is an important part of the arboretum’s history. It’s not only an entrance, but also a classroom, a meeting place, a landing spot, and a place to enjoy the tranquility and respite of the arboretum.

The future trellis design features increased seating and tables, space for seasonal garden displays, and a new kiosk for up-to-date information about our gardens and programs. This will be a phased project, which you can keep up with on our website at chadwickarboretum.osu.edu.

We look forward to welcoming you through our new entrance!