While Maine is known for the incredible leaf peeping opportunities, some of the most dramatic contributions here at Viles Arboretum comes from our Larch Collection.
Our larch collection features three unique species and hybrids between them. Larch are unique as they are one of few deciduous conifers, meaning they drop their needles seasonally. In the weeks prior to leaf drop, larches also exhibit vibrant gold hues.
Rotational Grazing at Viles Arboretum
New Land Management Practices to improve soil quality and control of invasives.
If you have visited Viles Arboretum in the summer you might have noticed a group of sheep grazing our grounds or taking an afternoon nap in the shade of their shelters, equipped with solar-powered fans. Grace Chavis is the shepherdess of Two Feathers Sheep and Fiber and has partnered with Viles Arboretum since 2019. The Two Feathers flock are Icelandic sheep, composed of retired ewes living out their golden years along with fiber wethers who love having fun on a daily basis and entertaining visitors at the Arboretum.
2020 has been an incredibly challenging year. Despite the challenges, it has been wonderful to see how our community can still come together and accomplish great work. The Arboretum is lucky to have a large group of volunteers.
Spread out across Viles Arboretum’s outdoor property, enjoy a BBQ lunch and take a stroll through Viles’ beautiful trail system. Lunch includes ribs, cornbread, coleslaw and beans. The Children’s Discovery Museum will be hosting free Fairies and Gnomes activities, including Fairy House building, rock painting, wand making and more!
If you have visited the Arboretum recently, you may have noticed we have been very busy. We have welcomed Ryan Martin as our new Executive Director and hired two seasonal members to serve as Land Stewards until the end of August.
While 2020 and Covid-19 has brought many challenges, the team at Viles has stepped up accomplished so much.
Thanks to the support of our donors and the efforts of volunteer coordinator Tracy Weber, we're pleased to share that the Food and Forest collection is nearing completion! Started in 2017, this collection utilizes a concept designed to mimic some elements of a natural ecosystem, to provide food for people, birds and pollinators and habitat for wildlife.
July is the month that the glorious blooms of the American Chestnut Tree appear. Arguably one of the showiest tree blooms in Maine, it is certainly a much-anticipated time to visit Viles Arboretum. As you approach the trees you will smell the blooms immediately, next you will probably hear and see the blooms alive with visiting pollinators.
When Summer veggies and fruits start making an appearance, it is easy to reach for the same recipes. Here are a few of our favorite new recipes.
FROM BON APPETIT
A new way to use that basil and tomatoes. Extra credit given to those who make their own puffed pastry.
If you are planning a trip to Viles Arboretum, make sure to stop by the Hosta Collection, as this time of year is nearing peak bloom. This collection is a very short hike from the Visitors Center and offers a nice reprieve from the heat of summer as you stroll through the shade of the Birch-lined trail that houses the collection.
