4th Annual Symposium
Evolution of the American Landscape: Olmsted’s Legacy
February 28, 2022

Fredrick Law Olmsted (1822-1903) was the founder of American landscape architecture. His legacy includes designing the grounds of Central Park, Prospect Park, the U.S. Capitol, Biltmore Estate and Bayard Cutting Arboretum. This year, we celebrate the 200th anniversary of his birthday by presenting a full-day program focusing on his influence on landscape and garden design.

Happy New Year:
The Bountiful Buds of Bayard Cutting Arboretum
Come January, a good portion of the leaves have dropped and most of the flowers have long since bloomed. However, the arboretum is still filled with beauty, splendor, and potential for the next season. Potential for the future takes form in the buds that cover the trees of our landscape. Not only do buds contain the energy reserves for future leaves and flowers, but they also contain the promise of another year of growth. Every bud is different based on the species and its adaptations to the environment. These differences are important factors in winter tree identification. For instance, we can differentiate Cornus kousa (Kousa dogwood) from Cornus florida (flowering dogwood) by the shape of the buds. C. kousa exhibits pointed globular buds as opposed to the flattened globular (turnip shaped) buds of C. florida. Magnolia stellata, star magnolia is extremely sensitive to early frosts. The flower buds of this plant display a densely pubescent coat to protect it from the elements that threaten its survival.
Flower bud set is incredibly heavy this year on both magnolias and dogwoods, the heaviest I have seen in the four years that I have been at the arboretum. If these buds are not damaged by early frost, 2022 holds the promise of being a great flowering year at Bayard Cutting Arboretum.
Cornus florida
Magnolia stellata 'Rosea'
2021 had its challenges, to the say the least. We can say goodbye to the past and prepare for the challenges that lay ahead. However, lets also be grateful for what we have and the promises for our future.
Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year,
Kevin Wiecks, Director
Reflecting on 2021 Plantings
As we enter 2022, it is a great time to reflect on our past year’s plantings and successes. Our staff has risen to the occasion these last couple of years to create a safe outdoor oasis for a record number of visitors. We take great pride in our role in our community. The constant changes and unknowns that we’ve all experienced seems to ease with a simple stroll through the arboretum. The staff and I can agree we are so fortunate to feel fulfilled during such a challenging time. 
In addition to navigating a pandemic, we have successfully maintained 691 acres and planted 212 specimens in 2021. The top three additions were oaks, rhododendrons and hollies. While these are common in the landscape, 61% of the plantings are brand new to our collection. Expanding our collection is not only exciting, but it allows us to share and observe how new types of trees handle different environments. The first year of planting requires close attention to watering, fertilizing, and environmental conditions. Luckily only 4 out of the 212 trees did not survive. Going back to our mapping data and notes, we can make conclusions on why they were unsuccessful.
In 2021, our trees and shrubs came from 20 different sources. The top three nurseries we sourced from were Atlantic Nurseries, Elhannon Nursery, and Half Hollow Nursery. All located in New York! We also received material from plant societies and institutions such as the American Chestnut Foundation, the Holly Society of America, US National Arboretum, and the International Oak Society. Our relationships and connections in the horticultural community allows us to expand our collection with incredibly rare specimens. 
Our hard work and dedication led to ArbNet awarding us with as a level 4 arboretum, the highest level of recognition. Currently, there are only 34 internationally accredited level 4 arboreta. We have actively worked towards satisfying the rigorous criteria for years, so the staff is incredibly thrilled to be recognized for all their hard work. We also were awarded with Best of Long Island public garden in 2021. 

In 2022, we will continue to work hard and push barriers. Projects are lining up and spring tree orders are being made. Our tree collection will continue to grow with a larger focus on diversity. Thanks to everyone for visiting and caring so much about Bayard Cutting Arboretum. I personally cannot wait to see what this new year will bring!

-Joy Arden, GIS Specialist
Staff Photo of the Month
Kristen Cella,
Office Manager
A stunning view of the dining room tapestry during along with beautiful holiday decor.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Dates: Feb 5
Cost per person: $40
For more info and to sign up: website
Join certified forest therapy guide, Linda Lombardo of Wild Heart Nature Connection, on a walk to reconnect with the natural world around us.
Manor House Tours
There is a lot of excitement in the air because our Manor House Tours are back. The groups are limited to eight guests and everyone must wear a mask on this guided tour. The tours fill up quickly! Call ahead, make your reservation and join our experienced Docents for an hour and a half journey through time.

Thursday through Sunday 1:00PM
Cost $15 Adult, $7 for children 12 and under
Call 631-581-1002
Arboretum Grounds Tours
The best way to see all that BCA has to offer is to take a “Grounds Tour” that is guided by a friendly and knowledgeable docent. We are offering free tours every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 am. We offer private grounds tours at $10 per person with a minimum of 10 on the tour. We hope to see you and your friends soon!
Check us out on Facebook to for up to date news and events!
Help Support Bayard Cutting Arboretum
Tax deductible donations can also be made by check payable to
Natural Heritage Trust and mailed to
Bayard Cutting Arboretum, PO Box 907, Great River, NY 11739