Nature Through the Seasons
Did you know that you can take part in the Arboretum’s conservation efforts by simply taking a photo? On your next visit, stop by one of the Arboretum’s three Chronolog stations located in the Swamp, along the Inner Loop, and at the Prairie Field Station. This global community science initiative allows you to take a photo and add it to an ongoing, crowd sourced timelapse of each site.
View the timelapses below to see how the Arboretum’s ecosystems change over time. Click on the ‘Watch on Chronolog’ link at the top of each video to learn more about each site and see each photo station’s exact location.
Chronolog Stations
Buttonbush Boardwalk & Swamp
Welcome to the Swamp! In late 2025, a significant amount of invasive and aggressive native vegetation was removed from this area. A variety of native species were then planted to increase the biodiversity and resilience of this wetland habitat. Add your photo to show how this ecosystem changes over time.
Inner Loop Woodland Restoration
In early 2026, the Houston Arboretum and Houston Fire Department worked together to conduct Houston’s very first woodland prescribed fire in this area. Can you see signs of the fire? Share your photo to help the Arboretum monitor vegetation regrowth and the ecosystem’s response to fire.
Prairie Field Station
The Prairie Field Station overlooks the Meadow, the Arboretum’s oldest grassland habitat. The prairie and savanna ecosystems are some of the most dynamic habitats at the Arboretum, with grasses and wildflowers marking the changing seasons. Keep an eye out for purple liatris in the summer, bright yellow sunflowers and goldenrod in the fall, and the brown and golden hues of the grasses as winter approaches. You may also see goats or signs of fire – the Arboretum uses both to keep this ecosystem healthy.