While the Elm Bank site contains many wonderful structures and facilities, it is the gardens and surrounding open spaces that form the basis of Elm Bank activities.

After an extensive search throughout metropolitan Boston, the Massachusetts Horticultural Society was authorized by the Metropolitan District Commission to develop a hands-on horticultural education center at Elm Bank Reservation, bordering Wellesley and Dover, MA.

The portion managed by MHS is a wonderful reflection of Elm Bank’s natural diversity. The site includes open fields and meadows, streams and pools, wooded areas and formal gardens. MHS is uniquely positioned, not only to protect these natural resources, but also to develop spaces that enhance visitors’ appreciation of the landscape and the surrounding Charles River.

The MHS gardens are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to dusk and are free to members. Non-members are encouraged to make a donation or become a member to enjoy the horticulture center and its array of gardens. The grounds and gardens of Elm Bank are handicap-accessible.

MassHort’s Gardens at Elm Bank represent a living collection. We ask all visitors to please respect our property and collections so that we may continue to build, preserve, and share the beauty of the Gardens.

The following guidelines apply:

• No plant material will be taken from the MassHort Elm Bank property without written consent from the Society;
• For the health, safety and welfare of all, dogs must be leashed and owners must clean up after them. Dogs are not allowed inside any garden areas;
• No balls, frisbees or Kites allowed in gardens;
• Stay on trails or lawn;
• No alcoholic beverages are allowed;
• No radios allowed;
• Do not feed or take wildlife from MassHort ponds, gardens or natural areas;
• Bikes, rollerblades, scooters or any wheeled recreational device are only allowed on the main paved pathways and are not allowed in any garden areas.

We thank you for being an active part of the MassHort mission.