The Longenecker Horticultural Gardens at 90: History and Current Initiatives

Presented by: David Garison Stevens, Ed Hasselkus Curator- Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum

The Longenecker Horticultural Gardens are the UW Arboretum’s arboretum, housing the largest and most diverse collection of woody plants in the state.  First planted in 1935, they are consistently one of the most visited natural areas in Madison, where visitors come to experience the beauty and wonder of woody plant diversity from Wisconsin and around the world. Though steeped in history, the collection continues to evolve, with new plants added yearly and staying current with technologies to help maintain and interpret it. Longenecker curator David Stevens will discuss the garden’s history and bring us up to date on what’s happening in it today.

Luncheon Lectures are held in the Arboretum Visitor Center Auditorium. A buffet lunch catered by Blue Plate, is followed by an educational presentation.  Each event costs $48.  Series for the entire season, 9 events, costs $432.

This popular series fills up quickly, so register soon. Registration closes November 9, 2025.

Prefer to download a pdf to mail a check? Click here.

If registering by mail, please be sure the registration form and payment arrive by November 9, 2025.

If you are purchasing more than one ticket, please provide the names of all attendees, if known.  A registration confirmation will be sent to you by email.  If a program you request is full, you will be contacted promptly.  Reservations are transferable.  If you transfer your reservation, please send an email to npscoordinator@foamadison.org or call us at 608-890-2555 and let us know the name of the attendee.  You may cancel a reservation and request a refund at least 2 weeks ahead of the event.  If you are unable to attend, please let us know, as there may be others on a waiting list.