Our Arboretum

Through the years numerous trees have been planted across the property and in 2019, Mt. Hope Farm was officially designated an arboretum by the international ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program.  Currently our arboretum has over 60 labeled specimens, representing a diversity of native and non-native species, with additional specimens being logged and labeled.  Watch for the black metal markers that sit at the base of many of our trees which indicate the common and Latin names and the region where the tree is native to.

Three of the oldest specimens on the property, planted during the time of Samuel W. Church's ownership (1837-1916), are the stately European beech trees located on the front lawn, each representing distinct varieties; a green beech by the main entrance at Metacom Avenue, a purple or copper beech and a fernleaf beech, both located southwest of the Governor Bradford house.  Based on their stature and estimated age, these trees are considered local and national treasures.  Several other notable mature specimen trees include American Sweetgum, European Horse Chestnut, American Dogwood, Giant Redwood, Blue Atlas Cedar, Paper Birch, American Holly, and European Littleleaf Linden.

The Mt. Hope Farm Trust invests in the maintenance and health management of our specimen trees, and is working with local arborists to conduct seasonal pruning, fertilization, and treatment for disease. In addition to maintaining the existing plant collection, Mt. Hope Farm is working to ensure that the arboretum continues to add new trees and shrubs to the property which will contribute to the beauty and ecological diversity and health of the property for generations to come.  

To support this effort, Mt. Hope Farm has initiated a "plant a tree" program through which we invite the public to sponsor the planting of a tree from a list of prioritized species.   Donors can choose to have the tree commemorate a loved one, recognize a marriage, a milestone birthday, or other special event.  As such, new trees are planted in an area of the property designated as Celebration Grove, overlooking freshwater ponds and includes a new walking trail and seating to enable our visitors to enjoy the quiet beauty of this special place. Details here.