Botanical gardens are important plant conservation sites because they keep plants away from their natural habitat (ex situ conservation).
botanical gardens
have a unique set of resources that allow them to host important research projects on climate change that are not easily carried out elsewhere. These resources include controlled growth conditions, living collections with a wide taxonomic representation, meticulous record keeping, networks that cover wide geographical areas, and expert personnel. In fact, botanical gardens have already significantly contributed to our understanding of biological responses to climate change, in particular the effects of temperature on the time of flowering and leaf release.They have also made significant contributions to the understanding of the relationships between climate, physiology and anatomy. Gardens are finding new uses for traditional research tools, such as herbarium specimens and historical photographs, which are increasingly being used to gain information about past plant behavior. Additional work on invasive species and comparative studies of responses to climate variation are providing information on important ecological, evolutionary and management issues. With their large collections of plant species from around the world and excellent herbaria, botanical gardens are well positioned to expand their current activities and continue to lead research and education on climate change.
Landscapes have enormous potential to benefit the environment and counteract environmental damage. A sustainable landscape can clean air and water, increase energy efficiency, restore habitats and, ultimately, “return” the natural benefits essential to human and ecological health. Learn about sustainable landscaping at the Bartholdi fountain and gardens. Whether you're interested in medicinal plants, succulents, bonsai, orchids or carnivorous plants, there's sure to be a garden with a collection to satisfy your curiosity.
In addition to their flourishing exhibits, botanical gardens often offer cultural events such as musical performances or art exhibitions. At the Inhotim Institute in Brazil, outdoor pavilions and galleries with works of art and sculptures are intermingled with gardens that were designed with the help of landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx. The colorful glass creations of renowned sculptor Dale Chihuly have been exhibited in more than a dozen U. Jog gardens, stroll along trails and trails, or take advantage of exercise classes offered in some gardens, such as yoga, tai chi, pilates or swing dancing.
To get the whole family involved, check the garden's events calendar for kid-friendly events, such as treasure hunts, or check if your local garden is dog-friendly; some even offer water plates and treats for Fido. United States Botanical Garden Conservatory, 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20001 (20 225-8333). The Dunedin Botanical Garden, in New Zealand, and the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, in South Africa, for example, place great emphasis on the cultivation of native and indigenous species.
