An arboretum is a collection of different types of living trees and shrubs. It can resemble a park or a natural forest like Viikki Arboretum. All arboretums have trees and shrubs that do not usually grow in the area.
Viikki Arboretum features Finnish forest trees. It also includes trees and shrubs from faraway countries.
Plants growing in an arboretum have signs indicating their names. An arboretum is a good place to learn about plants. People also study plants there.
Trees are important to humans. In cities, trees remove carbon dioxide and pollutants from the air. Trees protect from strong winds, block out noise and offer shade. They cool the air as well.
Trees give food and shelter to insects, birds and squirrels. The roots of trees are connected to mushrooms that grow out of the soil in the autumn. People can pick mushrooms and berries from the woods in cities too.
Viikki Arboretum is home to many birds. The versatile vegetation provides shelter and good places for nesting. Next to the arboretum is the University of Helsinki’s farm with its fields and animals. Birds find food there.
Many rare birds live in the reed bed, an area close to the sea where reeds grow. The arboretum has two birdwatching towers.
Everyone is welcome at Viikki Arboretum! Explore the plants and enjoy a stroll along the woodland trails. Or climb in one of the towers to watch birds.