The Arboretum has a world class conifer collection. Rare and unique specimens from all over the world exist here, no need to travel to Asia or Europe to experience them. Although we have this incredible collection of international specimens, we also have interesting and meaningful trees from a little closer to home.

The Southeastern United States is home to an important pine species-ecologically, culturally, and historically. Pinus palustris, or longleaf pine, can live up to 500 years or longer. The needles are extraordinarily long, up to 18 inches and mature trees can grow to 100-115 feet. The oldest existing longleaf pine is believed to be in North Carolina, at around 470 years old. In general, it is rare to find trees this venerable but in the case of the longleaf pine it is especially true.

The pine thrives in a fire ecosystem in which low intensity fires spread throughout a forest clearing brush and enriching the soil. Many plants are adapted to survive in such conditions and are in fact, dependent upon fire to live on. Some populations of pitch pine native to Long Island do not release seeds until they have experienced a fire event, so it is imperative to the continuation of the species that it is routinely exposed to fire. Fire also clears the ground and prepares it for optimal germination of these fire adapted pines.

Certain grass species are evolved to survive and thrive on fire. In fire adapted grasses, if the roots survive it can regenerate even when the foliage is burned. The longleaf pine is unique among trees in that it has a phase of life called the “grass stage” in which the pine tree remains in a foliage dominated state that will allow it to survive fires much like prairie grasses are adapted to do. Also, unlike many tree species, the pine develops a deep taproot early on in development for anchorage and energy storage. After spending a few years as “grass” it can enter into “rocket stage” after being exposed to sun, growing up to 3 feet per year! I believe one of the arboretum’s longleaf pine seedlings may have just entered its rocket stage, having grown about 2 feet this summer. If this tree was in its natural habitat and recently encouraged by fire, it may remain a tall, branchless stick of foliage for several more years before it begins to branch out. Since our longleaf pines have not, and will not experience fire, it will be an interesting study to see how they develop over time. 

As this tree is native to the Southeast, we do not have any mature specimens on the grounds. As the climate warms in the Northeast, we expect many plants that survive just south of us to be able to survive here, so these few longleaf pine seedlings are a horticultural experiment. You can see the Rocket Pine from the gravel path along the Woodland Border (2021-0212).

-Jessica O'Callahan, Horticulture Coordinator

$500: Engraved paver (6”x12”) located on the new Visitor Center patio.

$2,500: Engraved paver (6”x12”) with a maple leaf icon and a newly planted tribute tree. These unique accent trees include the Three-Flowered Maple, Chinese Tree Lilac, and Japanese White Pine. Meet us personally to discuss the tree location and type you may be interested in.

$3,500: Engraved paver (6”x12”) with an oak leaf icon and a newly planted tribute tree. These unique canopy trees include White Oak, Overcup Oak, Willow Oak, American Hornbeam, and European Hornbeam. Meet us personally to discuss the tree location and type you may be interested in.

Contact Kevin Wiecks, Director via email (kevin.wiecks@parks.ny.gov) or call us at 631-581-1002 for more information.

sugar maple (Acer saccharum) in the Cow Field.

Learn about Propagation with Mark Bridgen

Upcoming Dates: September 2, October 11

Join certified forest therapy guide, Linda Lombardo of Wild Heart Nature Connection, on a walk to reconnect with the natural world around us.

Walk length: 120 minutes; please wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and warm clothing for walking outdoors.

Fee: $40 per person.

For the 7th year, Women Sharing Art Inc. is honored to exhibit at the at the arboretum.

Inspired by the sylvan beauty of Frederick Law Olmsted designed grounds, and the grand manor house at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Women Sharing Art, Inc. is pleased to present a multi-media exhibit featuring over 30 artists. “Arboretum Inspirations” includes photography, sculpture, fabric art, paintings, pottery, mosaics, watercolor, and fine jewelry on exhibit and for sale in the Manor House Galleries.

The exhibit runs from August 31 thru September 24, 11 am to 4 pm, Thursdays thru Sundays. Please join the artists at a reception on Saturday, September 9, 2022, 1 pm to 4 pm.

Since 2014, Victoria has been offering watercolor workshops on the grounds of the Bayard Cutting Arboretum bringing patrons in to paint the beautiful surroundings, learn and practice a new skill and have a fun, relaxing day of painting.

All supplies are provided and no experience is necessary. You will be given hands on instruction, demonstration and guidance to create your masterpiece!

Please visit our website for her 2023 workshop schedule. You may also call Victoria if you have any question at (631) 374-2099

Saturday, November 4th 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Forest Bathing and Sound Healing at Bayard Cutting Arboretum! Join certified forest therapy guide, Linda Lombardo of Wild Heart Nature Connection, and Phoenix Green, sound healer, on a walk at Bayard Cutting Arboretum to reconnect with the natural world around us. We’ll slow down, wander and notice what most of the world simply walks past; the beauty of nature in any season. We’ll do some grounding, connect with the trees and water, and end with a healing sound bath to harmonize your experience with Nature. These walks are always slow and easy-going, not a hike; not a tour of plants or collections.

Info and Registration Here: https://www.forestbathingfinder.com/product/bayard-cutting-arboretum-21/

We welcome you and your children to explore our program. Tours are available on Tuesdays at 9:30 am starting June 13, 2023. Reservations are required and payment must be made in advance. For more information, please contact Carolann Gaites, Volunteer Coordinator, at 631-581-1002, ext. 105.

Call Main Office for more information. 631-581-1002