Mission
"A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they will never sit." - Greek Proverb

Founded in 1900, incorporated in 1902, the mission of The Horticultural Society of New York (HSNY) is to enhance our City’s environmental and cultural life by providing unique educational, vocational, and therapeutic outreach programs, library resources and art exhibitions. HSNY is committed to promoting a public appreciation and understanding of the art and science of horticulture.

HSNY works in traditionally underserved communities through a network of innovative programs. Each year, we serve a broad-based constituency. Our library, information services, and art gallery are available to the general public as well as to community groups and corporate members. Our community service programs reach an even broader spectrum: African American and Latino children, librarians, library custodians, incarcerated adults, residents of troubled neighborhoods, senior citizens, and the thousands of library patrons who enjoy our library gardens.

To stay informed of events, exhibitions, classes, and other news put your name on our mailing list.

The photo was taken at our new office space.
Design by Marpillero Pollak Architects / Photography by Whitney Cox.