FAQ

When do the rhododendrons flower?

The first rhododendrons flower at the beginning of May and the last in early July. This means that the blossom on the evergreens is usually at its best in the second and third weeks of June, and on the azaleas about one week earlier. But remember that there are lots of other things to see in Mustila as well – not just rhododendrons. We particularly recommend a visit in May, when the spring flowers are out and the leaves are just breaking, and again when the leaves are turning in late September and early October.

What is flowering in the Arboretum right now? What is a good time to see the autumn colours?

The timing of the blossom and the autumn colours varies from year to year, depending on the weather, but we can roughly predict the times. Our calendar gives approximate dates. As you will see, there is most blossom in May, and the autumn colours are most brilliant in late September and early October.

Is the arboretum suitable for wheelchairs?

Not all the paths are suitable for wheelchairs, but those in the main woodland garden areas are. The paths here are wide and well-kept.

Can I drive round the Arboretum?

There is one road round the Arboretum. The other roads are intended mainly for pedestrians, and for maintenance.

Can I bring my dog to the Arboretum?

Yes, you can bring your dog to the Arboretum, and free of charge, so long as you keep it on its leash and you clear up any poop.

Can I collect seeds or plants in the Arboretum?

No, not unless you have special permission. This may be granted in certain cases. We hope you will not finger the plants or their seeds, because they may be needed for the Arboretum’s own research and propagation. “Tinkering” may leave ugly traces.

Can I ski in the Arboretum?

Yes. In winters with a lot of snow, there are basic ski tracks through the Arboretum, but we do not have the resources to keep them in tip-top condition.

Are there any rare birds or animals in the Arboretum?

The Arboretum does not feed animals. It is popular with bird-watchers because its biodiversity attracts numerous species of birds. There have been regular sightings of such rare birds as the spotted nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes), which seeks out Cembra and Macedonian Pines in autumn, and the two-barred crossbill (Loxia leucoptera) that feeds on larch seeds in winter. Hares, foxes and badgers are our most common mammals. The Arboretum is probably also the home of many unusual insects, but they have not been documented.

Why do I have to pay to visit the Arboretum?

The Arboretum does not run on public funding. It is maintained by a foundation that has to finance most of its operations itself. Admission fees are the foundation’s biggest individual source of income. Without them, the Arboretum could not be maintained, tended and developed.