Viles Arboretum is pleased to announce the soft launch of Hortis, an innovative plant accessioning software that will streamline and enhance the management and accessibility of the Arboretum’s diverse plant collections. This new tool marks a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to preserve and share our living collections with the public.
Hortis brings an interactive mapping feature that will allow staff and visitors to explore the Arboretum's vast array of trees, shrubs, and plants in unprecedented detail. As part of the launch, staff have begun an audit of the plant records to verify and update the location and condition of each specimen though out the Arboretum's 224 acres. This work is ongoing, and the public view of the map will display only the plants that have been audited to date, providing a current snapshot of our collections while updates continue.
Visitors are invited to participate in this important project by submitting photographs of trees and plants taken during their visits, both recent and historical. Photos taken over the past 40 years are particularly valuable, as they provide critical insights into the growth and changes within the Arboretum's collections.
We're excited to involve the community in this process. Your photos will not only help us update our records but also contribute to the rich history of Viles Arboretum. Visitors can submit their photos online here. All photos submitted may be used to enhance the accuracy of the Arboretum’s plant records and may also be featured in future educational materials, marketing campaigns, and promotional content.
Hortis will enhance our plant management capabilities while also enriching the experience for all visitors. Additionally, it will provide those who cannot visit the Arboretum with an opportunity to explore and learn about our collections and plants from afar.
