Hudson ParkChildren's Greenhouse

An educational center that will provide horticultural programs for children and the whole community of New Rochelle, New York.

The Greenhouses


Classes
Events


For 100 years Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse (HPCG) was where plants were grown to fill our parks, children came to learn about gardening and residents grew orchids and cacti plants that fascinated park visitors. We created a new and modern greenhouse in the spirit of that historic greenhouse. We host garden programming activities and horticultural programs for children and the whole community of New Rochelle.
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Greenhouse History

The two connected greenhouses, built between 1911 and 1929, supported the City’s parks and beautification programs for decades. At least one of the greenhouses was built by the notable firm Lord & Burnham. They are among the very few remaining municipal greenhouses in Westchester County. The greenhouses were most recently used for growing plants by senior citizens, school students of all ages and children with developmental disabilities. The greenhouses were closed in 2009 due to structural deterioration, the poor economy, concerns about utility costs, broken glass and a failing concrete slab floor. Sadly, the entire structure is now fenced off to prevent entry and has fallen into further decay. The current greenhouses will soon be torn down.

Committee

In 2015, a group of concerned residents formed the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization known as the Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse (HPCG). Our group consists of fifty-six engaged constituents united in the purpose of creating a valuable community asset and establishing a sustainable operating resource for the public. Our members are a diverse group that includes an agronomist, chemist, environmental specialist, accountant, educators, tradesmen, professionals, business owners and community leaders. HPCG President Millie Radonic-Ilich is the Founder of Amy’s Greenhouse at Barnard Early Childhood Center in the City School District of New Rochelle, and she was asked to spearhead this initiative based on her success there.

Programming

The HPCG programming subcommittee runs horticultural programming in two New Rochelle public schools, Trinity Elementary and Barnard Early Childhood Center. Our garden educators are retired teachers who have taught series on seeds, vegetable gardening and propagation and have installed raised garden beds. We are working with Trinity Elementary staff and administration to create a multi-year series of garden programming that runs from first grade through fifth grade.

Our Mission


Greenhouse Rendering

Rendering of Hudson Park Children's Greenhouse, view from Bandshell parking lot

HPCG is creating a sustainable and vibrant community greenhouse and activities program. We will host garden programming activities for the community. This initiative will enhance the development of Hudson Park, New Rochelle and Long Island Sound’s coastline for the enjoyment and benefit of New Rochelle’s children and community. This will provide a tremendous resource to the community and will inspire future improvements throughout Hudson Park. Greenhouse visitors will learn about horticulture, propagation, nutrition, and they will experience beauty.

Fundraising

Design

Community Involvement

Commitment

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Programs


There are no Programs Scheduled at this time. Please check back.

Latest News


Recycled Art on Earth Day

Recycled Art on Earth Day
Monday April 22
Time: 2-4

Participants:12 children, 6-12yrs old

Recyclables come into our homes every day—boxes, bottlecaps, catalogs, and on an...

Breathing with Plants

Breathing with Plants
Sunday April 14th
10 – 11 am

Children 7 to 11 years old will learn about how plants breathe, and which plants make good companions for ea...

Hudson Park Children's Greenhouse Unveils Inaugural "Winter Train Show"

Hudson Park Children's Greenhouse Unveils Inaugural "Winter Train Show" - A Whimsical Journey Through Scale Model Wonderlands

New Rochelle, NY - January 1, 2024 – The Hudson Park Children's Gr...

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Upcoming Events


Mother's Day Tea Party

Join us for a joyful and elegant parent and child afternoon tea party at the Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse including crafts, photo booth, tea biscuits and more! Saturday May 11th, 1-3

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