Schedel Arboretum and Gardens Toledo

Schedel Arboretum and Gardens

First open to the public in 1991, the Schedel Arboretum and Gardens is located some 20 miles southeast of Toledo in Elmore, Ohio.

The 17+ acres of gardens offer visitors breathtaking views of both upland and lowland habitats and the opportunity to see many plant species not normally available in our area.

With more than 13,000 annuals, flowering trees, perennials and a variety of shrubs, the gardens are awash in color from early spring until late fall.

Spattered throughout the grounds are 25 varieties of Japanese maples, 16 species of pine, as well as magnolia, beech, bamboo and cypress trees. Visitors are also impressed with the approximately 50 varieties of lilacs that grow within the gardens.

A beautiful Japanese Garden area, created on the Portage River floodplain, is part of the garden acreage. Peace and serenity abound as visitors cross graceful bridges, listen to calming waterfalls or watch the many species of fish as they swim about in two lakes.

The Schedel mansion is located on the grounds as well and is available for tours by appointment. Once there, visitors get a peek at the legacy left by Joseph and Marie Schedel and how the couple lived and worked.

The picturesque gardens have become a popular location for weddings, receptions, picnics and other functions. Accommodations for as many as 250 people are available, but demand is high and advance reservations are required.

Operated by the Joseph J. and Marie P. Schedel Foundation, the arboretum and gardens are located at 19255 W. Portage River South Road. The gardens are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sundays (May through October). For April hours visit the website www.schedel-gardens.org. Admission is charged. Guided tours of the gardens are also available by appointment and are offered for groups of up to 25 people. Mansion tours take about 45 minutes and are offered for individuals or groups of up to 15 people. Available by appointment or Wednesdays and Fridays at 1p.m. Fees apply.

For more information about the gardens, call 419.862.3182 or log onto www.schedel-gardens.org.

Written by: Pam Ciepichal