News

  • Spring Pruning in Alberta’s Zone 3: Tips & Techniques for a Thriving Garden

    Spring Pruning in Alberta’s Zone 3: Tips & Techniques for a Thriving Garden As winter loosens its grip and signs of spring begin to show, it’s time to start thinking about pruning—one of the most important tasks for healthy, beautiful trees and shrubs. In Alberta’s Zone 3, with its short growing season and harsh winters,…

  • Call for Vendors – Arboretum Summer Markets

    Call for Vendors Join us this summer at the beautiful Arboretum in Trochu for a series of vibrant outdoor markets celebrating local makers, growers, and small businesses. Market Dates Each market brings together a curated mix of artisans, food vendors, and unique local offerings in a relaxed, community-centered setting. About the Markets The Trochu Arboretum…

  • Volunteers needed for 2026 Season at the Trochu Arboretum

    Volunteers needed for 2026 Season at the Trochu Arboretum The Trochu Arboretum is preparing for another beautiful growing season, and we’re looking for volunteers to help bring the gardens to life. With several spring projects planned, we welcome anyone who enjoys working outdoors, contributing to the community, or simply spending time in this special space.…

  • Trochu Arboretum Featured in Alberta’s Garden Book

    Trochu Arboretum Featured in Alberta’s Garden Book The Trochu Arboretum is honoured to be featured in the Spring 2026 edition of Alberta’s Garden Book, published by the Master Gardeners Association of Alberta. The article highlights the Arboretum’s rich history, diverse plantings, and the dedicated community stewardship that has helped shape it into the beautiful public…

  • Preparing Your Garden for the Spring

    As the snow melts and the first signs of green emerge, gardeners across Alberta eagerly prepare for another season of growth and renewal. Spring is the perfect time to set the foundation for a thriving garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, here are the key steps to get your garden ready…

  • Bringing Blooms to Seniors: Trochu Arboretum’s Heartfelt Delivery

    Bringing Blooms to Seniors: Trochu Arboretum’s Heartfelt Delivery Just before the first frost in early October, the Trochu Arboretum team and our dedicated volunteers set out to share the beauty of the garden with the residents of St. Mary’s Health Care Centre. Carefully harvesting dahlias, strawflowers, and other vibrant late-season blooms, the team transformed the…

  • Wildlife in the Arboretum: Preparing for Winter

    Wildlife in the Arboretum: Preparing for Winter As the days shorten and temperatures drop, the Trochu Arboretum transforms into a quiet, frosted wonderland. While humans might be tucking in warm sweaters and planning their gardens for next spring, the local wildlife is busy with its own winter preparations. Understanding how animals survive the harsh Alberta…

  • Best Practices for Composting in Cold Climates

    Best Practices for Composting in Cold Climates Composting in Alberta’s cold climate might seem challenging, but with the right methods, you can create rich, healthy soil even through the long winters. While decomposition slows as temperatures drop, microbial life never stops completely — it just goes dormant until spring warmth returns. With a little preparation…

  • Seeds to Plant Before Winter

    How to Prepare for a Beautiful Spring Garden As the growing season wraps up, fall is the perfect time to look ahead to spring. Knowing what seeds to plant before winter (also known as fall sowing) is an easy, natural way to let your garden follow the rhythm of the seasons. Many plants actually need…

  • Trochu Arboretum Hosts Travel Drumheller Long Table Dinner

    Trochu Arboretum Hosts Travel Drumheller Long Table Dinner On September 18 and 20, 2025, the Trochu Arboretum came alive as it hosted Travel Drumheller’s Long Table Dinner—two unforgettable evenings that celebrated local food, community, and the beauty of Alberta’s prairies. Guests gathered around long tables set beneath the Arboretum’s trees, where twinkling lights and the…

  • The Science Behind Leaf Color Changes

    The Science Behind Leaf Color Changes Autumn in Alberta is a spectacular time of year. From golden poplars in the prairies to fiery red maples in city parks, the landscape transforms into a canvas of warm hues. But what’s really happening inside those leaves to create such a show? Let’s dig into the science of…

  • Fall Gardening Myths Debunked

    Fall Gardening Myths Debunked When the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, many gardeners assume their work is done. But fall is one of the most important—and rewarding—seasons in the garden. Let’s bust a few common myths that keep people from making the most of autumn. Myth 1: Gardening Ends After Summer Truth:…

  • Dividing Perennials: When & How to Do It

    Dividing Perennials: When & How to Do It Perennials are the backbone of many gardens, returning year after year with reliable color and structure. But even the hardiest plants can become overcrowded, tired, or less vigorous over time. That’s where dividing comes in—a simple gardening technique that gives your plants a fresh start while expanding…

  • The Magic Forest of the Trochu Arboretum

    The Magic Forest of the Trochu Arboretum (Travel Drumheller Article) Prairies to Badlands: Locally Grown StoriesStories Rooted in Community & Event Partnership Location: Trochu, Alberta | Logged by: The Gallivanting Gals If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the pages of The Secret Garden, the Trochu Arboretum is waiting. Right in the heart of the prairie, it feels like…

  • Trochu Arboretum Hosts 53rd Annual Flower Show

    Trochu Arboretum Hosts 53rd Annual Flower Show The Trochu Arboretum was in full bloom on August 20, 2025 as the community gathered for the 53rd Annual Flower Show, celebrating local talent, creativity, and the beauty of nature. The event brought together gardeners, bakers, photographers, and community members of all ages, making it a highlight of…

  • How to Preserve & Store Your Garden Harvest

    How to Preserve & Store Your Garden Harvest Nothing feels as satisfying as harvesting fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from your own garden. But the season is short, and without proper preservation, all that hard work can go to waste. With a few simple techniques, you can enjoy your garden’s bounty well into the colder…

  • Late Summer Bloomers: Plants That Thrive in September

    Late Summer Bloomers: Plants That Thrive in September As the warmth of summer begins to fade, many gardens in Alberta start to wind down—but not all! September is a magical time when certain hardy perennials, annuals, and native wildflowers shine at their peak. These late bloomers not only extend the beauty of the season but…

  • DIY Herbal Teas from Your Garden

    DIY Herbal Teas from Your Garden A How-To Guide Using Alberta Native Plants and Traditional Herbs There’s something deeply satisfying about sipping a warm cup of tea made from herbs you grew and prepared yourself. Beyond flavor, many herbs carry nutritional and soothing qualities that have been used for generations. In Alberta, we’re fortunate to…

  • Celebrating a Flourishing Open Farm Days

    Celebrating a Flourishing Open Farm Days Last Saturday, August 16, the Trochu Arboretum hosted a truly memorable Open Farm Days & Artisan Market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Alberta Open Farm Days. The sunny weather set the perfect stage for a day that celebrated community, nature, and sustainable agriculture. What Made It Shine Artisan…

  • Mid-Summer Garden Checklist

    Mid-Summer Garden Checklist Keeping Your Alberta Garden Thriving Through the Heat We’ve hit the heart of summer, and Alberta gardens are in full bloom—or, for veggie growers, bursting with early harvests! But don’t let the lushness fool you: mid-summer is a crucial time to keep your garden happy, hydrated, and under control. Whether you’re tending…

  • Drought-Resistant Landscaping for Alberta Gardens

    Drought-Resistant Landscaping for Alberta Gardens Tips on Xeriscaping & Water-Wise Gardening As Alberta summers grow hotter and drier, many gardeners are turning to drought-resistant landscaping to keep their outdoor spaces thriving without over-relying on water. The good news? With the right approach, you can create a lush, vibrant garden that’s both eco-friendly and low maintenance—and…

  • Video Story by Tusk Media – Why This Forest Oasis Took 100 Years to Form

    Video Story by Tusk Media – Why This Forest Oasis Took 100 Years to Form This video is a heartfelt visual journey through the Trochu Arboretum, created by the talented team at Tusk Media. Tusk Media joined us on-site to explore, experience, and capture the story of our unique forest oasis. From their first meeting…

  • Photo Gallery – What’s Growing in the Arb

    Photo Gallery – What’s Growing in the Arb The Trochu Arboretum is alive with colour, texture, and the quiet magic of midsummer growth! From heritage trees to medicinal herbs, native prairie blooms to flourishing veggie beds, nature is putting on a spectacular show—and we’ve captured some of it in our latest gallery. Take a stroll…

  • Celebrating Native Alberta Flora – Canada Day Special

    Celebrating Native Alberta Flora – Canada Day Special As we celebrate Canada Day, it’s the perfect time to recognize the living landscape that makes our country truly special — starting with the plants that have deep roots in our history, culture, and ecosystems. From the towering Rockies to the sweeping prairies, Alberta is home to…