The energy and creativity of volunteers provide essential support to our gardens and programs. We welcome volunteers with an interest in plants to help our Horticulture Staff maintain the Arboretum’s gardens.
Winter and Spring 2026 Volunteer Session Schedule
Root Slayers Invasive Plant Removal
Mondays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
January to May 2026 (except January 19 and May 25)
Slay those scary roots with us in the Ambler Arboretum! This session is for volunteers interested in invasive plant management and brave enough to work around thorns and creeping vines. Tasks will include digging, raking, untangling vines and pruning, which will help to restore our woodlands and natural garden areas. Previous garden experience is helpful but not required. We will provide training, guidance, tools and gloves. Buckthorn and bittersweet won’t stand a chance!
Tree Thursdees
Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
January to May 2026
Speak for the trees on Thursdees! This session is for volunteers interested in helping us re-establish the campus’ tree canopy by maintaining the newest trees and shrubs in our collection and helping to plant new ones. Tasks will include digging, planting, edging, mulching, staking, caging and pruning. Previous garden experience is helpful but not required. We will provide training, guidance, tools and gloves. Make the Lorax proud!
Drop-in Volunteer Sessions
Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
January to May 2026
Saturdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
March to May 2026 (except May 23)
The session you know and love — Drop-in Volunteering! This session is for anyone interested in gardening and helping us with whatever exciting Arboretum project we are working on that day — no RSVP needed! There are tasks for all skill levels and abilities such as weeding, digging, raking, planting, shearing, edging, mulching, staking, caging and pruning. We will provide training, guidance, tools and gloves.
For all sessions
Tools, instructions, snacks and gloves are provided. Wear close-toe shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Dress in layers and remember water, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Location: 580 Meetinghouse Rd, Ambler, PA 19002. Park in Lot 1 on Meetinghouse Road. There are a chalkboard and map located in front of the Administration Building that explains where to meet for each session.
Attention: Volunteers must register their cars while on campus. There are two ways to do this. You may scan the QR code found on the signs in our parking lot or you may pre-register online here.
Other Volunteer Opportunities at the Ambler Arboretum
- If you are interested in becoming an Ambler Arboretum volunteer, please fill out our online volunteer form.
- Adopt-a-Garden – Experienced gardeners wishing to volunteer on a weekly basis may arrange with the Arboretum Horticulturists to volunteer regularly in a specific garden area. Weekly Volunteers typically work a half-day per week and assist a Horticulture Staff member with all tasks needed to maintain the garden section throughout the season.
- Arboretum Docents – Lead visiting groups through the garden areas so they don’t miss the seasonal changes, new projects, or historic highlights. Training will be provided.
- Publicity and Outreach – spread the word about the Arboretum at various regional events. We will provide everything you need, you provide the enthusiasm! You may also contribute photos and content for our social media and newsletter.
- Group Volunteer Opportunities – If you are interested in having a corporate, scout, school or organization group volunteer in the Arboretum reach out to Arboretum Director Kathy Salisbury to arrange. [click-for-email] or 267-468-8400.
- Experienced gardeners wishing to volunteer on a weekly basis may arrange with the Arboretum Horticulturists to volunteer regularly in a specific garden area. Weekly Volunteers typically work a half-day per week and assist a Horticulture Staff member with all tasks needed to maintain the garden section throughout the season.
For more information about these volunteer opportunities for individuals 18 years of age and older, contact Kathy Salisbury, Director of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, at 267-468-8400 or [click-for-email].
Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee
The Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee meets at least quarterly and its purpose is to advise and counsel the Ambler Arboretum Director.
Members engage in strategic planning for the Arboretum, provide information that may impact the Arboretum, lead and assist efforts to obtain funding for the maintenance and enhancement of the gardens and grounds and provide leadership and commitment to Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum.
The Advisory Committee is comprised of no more than 20 external members who are interested and passionate about the mission and vision of the Ambler Arboretum. Members often bring expertise and skills, which help the Arboretum to reach and maintain its goals and visions.
The Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee played a key role in the conceptualization and establishment of many of the Arboretum’s gardens as well as supporting student workers and connecting the Arboretum to the surrounding community.
For more information on how to become a member of the Arboretum Advisory Committee, contact Arboretum Director, Kathy Salisbury at 267-468-8400 or [click-for-email].