August in the Arboretum

A quiet walk among the trees is just what you need. Come early to enjoy the cool morning. Walk softly to get a glimpse of local wildlife. Listen carefully for the wind in the branches.

What’s Blooming?

Look what’s blooming right now!

Downy Serviceberry and Redbuds near the entrance to the arboretum. Crews have been working diligently to weed and mulch. It’s a work in progress, but the weather is perfect to walk around and see what’s happening in the City of Dickson Arboretum.

2024 Tulip Poplar Service Project

Many hands make light work…and we had a full crew of volunteers to package tree seedlings on Saturday. The Dickson Beautification & Tree Management Board would like to thank our helpers from Tennessee Forestry, UT Extension Dickson and Humphries Counties 4H members, Gardening Partners, Dickson Parks Department, and our board members. It was a fun project and we packaged over 950 trees to be given out to 4th graders in both counties. We all had some great conversations and made some new friends. Can’t wait for next year!

Arboretum Certification

Dickson Tree Management & Beautification Board is currently striving to update the City of Dickson Arboretum and attain certification via Tennessee Urban Forestry Council. We hope to complete the process for Level 1 Certification in 2024 to provide a welcoming and educational setting for visitors to learn about trees in a relaxed and tranquil setting.

Tennessee Arboretum Certification Requirements & Levels

General Requirements

  • Accurately identify at least 30 distinct tree species.
  • Meet criteria for Level 1.
  • Location must be open to the public. Special consideration for private sites is available.
  • Trees are and will be maintained in good health.
  • Protect trees from string trimmer and mower damage (through communication with maintenance, markings, mulch, or protection device).
  • Mulch, if used, must not touch the tree’s trunk.
  • Newly planted trees must be watered on a regular schedule.
  • All trees are to be labeled with both their scientific/botanical and common names.

The scientific/botanical name must be underscored or in italics. The current edition (6) of Dirr’s Manual of Woody Landscape Plants is the Style Manual for names and labeling format. Other descriptive information is not required.

  • Tree labels must be easy to read and located near tree.

Place tree labels on or directly adjacent to each tree. Staked tree labels are preferred; however, tags can also be hung from limbs or embedded in trunks using aluminum nails or screws at a readable height. Steel screws or nails are not recommended. Spacing-springs are optional, but need to be placed in front of the sign

  • Trees located within or overhanging high-use areas must be in safe condition and inspected regularly for potential hazards.
  • If a tree poses a safety risk, then corrective actions must be taken.
  • The TUFC Certified Arboretum sign must be posted and maintained.
  • Re-certification is required every 3 years.