Growing Together: Extension and the Arboretum
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Collapse ▲My family and I moved to Wilmington in 2007 with a two-year-old and newborn in tow. One of the first places we visited was the New Hanover County Arboretum, and it quickly became our go-to spot for walking, exploring, and enjoying the outdoors in a safe and free environment. My little ones loved visiting the koi in the pond and marveling at bees and butterflies throughout the gardens. Little did I know then that one day, I’d be at the helm of this special place.
The Arboretum has evolved and grown since those early days, shaped by the vision of past County Extension Directors, the dedication of our staff, and the efforts of many volunteers. As the new Director for N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center, I am honored to help guide its next chapter—one that expands education and provides solutions for our residents.
The Arboretum showcases plants that will thrive in a coastal climate.
The Arboretum is home to the New Hanover County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension, a partnership between our county and NC State and NC A&T State Universities. These land-grant universities, established under the Morrill Acts of 1862 and 1890, extend research-based knowledge to the public through teaching, research, and education. By working closely with residents, schools, municipalities, and organizations, we address community needs for New Hanover County—from teaching food safety and nutrition, supporting youth development, horticulture best practices, conserving natural resources, to improving quality of life.
Our Extension agents bring technical expertise and practical experience, offering research-based solutions to local challenges. Through workshops, consultations, and educational programs at the Arboretum and throughout the county, our agents answer questions and provide knowledge, advice, and solutions for pressing problems.
At the heart of our Consumer Horticulture program, the Arboretum serves as a living classroom, showcasing plants that thrive in our coastal climate, conservation techniques, and inspiring landscape designs for homeowners and professionals. The garden is a teaching ground for Cooperative Extension’s horticultural classes, trainings, and certifications for residents, landscapers, and green industry professionals. Visitors will soon see new gardens and signage highlighting best practices—from heat-adapted or disease-resistant cultivars to nature-based stormwater solutions that protect waterways.
N.C. Cooperative Extension Plant Clinic at the Arboretum
Residents and professionals can visit our on-site Extension Plant Clinic staffed by our Horticulture team and Master Gardener volunteers. Our experts diagnose plant diseases and insect issues, advise on soil amendments, and help select the right plants for your landscape.
I invite you to visit the Arboretum, explore the gardens, and take advantage of the resources available through your local Extension office. We are here not only to provide a safe, beautiful, and free green space in the heart of a busy city, but also to deliver services and expertise offered by your land-grant universities. From gardening advice to programs that build a more resilient community, the Arboretum is your connection to the resources of NC State University and N.C. A&T State University.
Amy Mead is the County Extension Director and Commercial Horticulture Agent for N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center located at the Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Drive. The gardens are free and open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reach her at afmead@ncsu.edu or 910-798-7660.