The arboretum was established in 1908 by Edmund Secrest, the first State Forester of Ohio.
It contains the largest collection of rhododendrons and azaleas in the state of Ohio.
The facility serves as a primary site for the evaluation of new plant cultivars before they are introduced to the nursery trade.
The site features a significant collection of conifers that are monitored for their survival rates in non-native soil conditions.
The grounds include a dedicated memorial garden and a stone-built bridge that serves as a central architectural feature.
Researchers use the arboretum to study the impact of climate change on tree species migration patterns.
It is home to several 'state champion' trees, measured by their height, trunk circumference, and canopy spread.
Secrest Arboretum is a 115-acre outdoor research facility operated by The Ohio State University's Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center. It serves as a living laboratory for testing tree hardiness and performance in the Midwest climate. The grounds feature over 2,500 varieties of trees and shrubs organized into specialized collections. Notable sections include the rhododendron display, crabapple collection, and the multi-seasonal perennial gardens. The arboretum functions as a center for both academic forestry research and public horticultural education. Visitors walk along established paths that traverse diverse topographical zones, including woodland areas and open meadows. The site is a certified arboretum, recognized for its commitment to woody plant conservation and scientific documentation. It remains an active site for ongoing OSU research projects and long-term tree observation.
The elevated overlook bridge providing a panoramic view of the perennial gardens and the surrounding arboretum landscape.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as paths range from paved walkways to wood-chipped trails through hilly terrain.
Bring a camera and a field guide, as most botanical specimens are labeled with scientific and common names.
Check the OSU Secrest Arboretum website for scheduled guided tours or Master Gardener workshops before visiting.
Do not wander into active research plots marked with signage, as these areas often contain delicate experiments or dangerous materials.
Stay on marked paths to protect plant research plots; do not collect seeds, cuttings, or plant samples.
