History
This 60-acre urban arboretum is named for Dr. Lewis C. Chadwick (1902-1993), who served 38 years as a researcher and horticulture professor at The Ohio State University. The Arboretum was designated by the OSU Board of Trustees in 1980 and dedicated on May 24th, 1981. Dr. Chadwick was recognized worldwide for his contributions in the field of landscape horticulture and is credited with bringing the field of arboriculture to a professional status. His contributions in the selection of trees throughout the 1,741 acres of the OSU Columbus campus landscape and at the OSU Secrest Arboretum in Wooster, Ohio are his legacy.
Design
The arboretum's 17 gardens are well-designed models of annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs – both native and non-native -- for the central Ohio climate. Additional areas reflect Ohio's glacial history and prairies, commemorate special people and offer whimsy and horticultural therapy. Featured plant collections include the nation's largest willow colleciton, a substantial collection of conifers, and trees and shrubs native to Ohio.
During the growing season, the Arbroetum's colorful displays attract many visitors. Highlights include a hosta collection, extensive perennial borders, container plans, tropical foliage plants, unusual annuals, wildflowers, grasses, flowering bulbs and annual trials.