FONA Field Notes

Spring Traffic Plan & Native Plants

The National Arboretum is implementing a temporary traffic plan that impacts traffic flow and parking throughout the grounds. This plan is meant to keep the grounds safe for drivers, pedestrians, and all visitors…
FONA Field Notes banner of flowering cherry tree and visitors in front of the Capitol Columns

Guide to Volunteering with FONA

There are many ways to volunteer with FONA throughout the year and support our work at the National Arboretum. There’s something for everyone, from gardening, to event support, to environmental…
FONA Field Notes banner of daffodils

Spring Blooms are Here!

The National Arboretum’s cherry blossoms and magnolia flowers are putting on a beautiful spring show across the grounds. The Arboretum is home to a high diversity of flowering cherry trees…
FONA Field Notes banner of deciduous magnolias in front of the Capitol Columns

Spring Event Guide

Enjoy spring at the National Arboretum! We’re collaborating with lots of local partners to host exciting activities and events this season, including…
FONA Field Notes banner of Garden Fair and Plant Sale attendees

A Deeper Dive into History

Earlier this month, we highlighted the role Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1360 had in building the National Arboretum’s infrastructure. This company was an all-Black unit stationed at the National Arboretum…
FONA Field Notes banner of cornelian flowering dogwoods in front of the capitol columns

Taking Home Gold

We are thrilled to announce that FONA’s Washington Youth Garden 50th Anniversary short film just received a Gold Anthem Award in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Community Space category. As part…
FONA Field Notes banner of lentin roses

New Eagle Nest at the Arboretum

FONA’s 2022 Annual Report is here! 2022 brought back many of FONA’s fan-favorite events and programs, including the Garden Fair & Plant Sale, field trips in Washington Youth Garden, and Dinner…
FONA Field Notes banner of flowering apricot trees

Black Legacies at the Arboretum

The National Arboretum would likely not look as it does today without the work of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1360, an all African American unit. This company was stationed…
FONA Field Notes banner of snowdrops

Witch in the Woods

Witch-hazel is a small tree or shrub that blooms from October through March, depending on its species. At the National Arboretum, you can find all three species of witch-hazel native…
FONA Field Notes banner of witch hazel

MANTS & Plants

Scott Aker, who served as the Head of Horticulture and Education at the National Arboretum since 2013, recently started a new position as Manager of the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
FONA Field Notes banner of winter sweet
keyboard_arrow_up