Dyck Arboretum of the Plains

Hesston, Kansas, United States

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The Dyck Arboretum of the Plains in Hesston, Kansas, was established in 1981 as a gift from Harold and Elva Mae Dyck, aiming to promote the appreciation and understanding of native Kansas plants and prairie landscapes.

Starting with 13 acres, it has grown into a 29-acre botanical garden featuring more than 600 species of native and adaptable trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses, with a focus on plants indigenous to the Great Plains region. The arboretum includes a reconstructed prairie called the Prairie Window Project, providing visitors with an immersive experience of native prairie ecosystems.

Paths wind through gardens showcasing seasonal wildflowers and native grasses, complemented by a two-acre pond that attracts wildlife. The site also offers educational programs, workshops, community events, and art exhibits to connect people with nature and conservation.

Managed by Hesston College, it relies on volunteers, staff, and donors to maintain its mission of environmental education and prairie restoration, making it a unique natural and cultural resource in a small Kansas community.