Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse

Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at the Smithsonian Gardens? Right here, at the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse in Suitland, Maryland, the magic of the Smithsonian Gardens truly unfolds. This isn’t just a greenhouse. It’s the heart of a horticultural symphony, nurturing life that graces the Smithsonian museums and gardens in Washington D.C. Completed in 2010, the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse isn’t open to the public. But imagine stepping inside this 64,000-square-foot facility, a world teeming with vibrant plant life. Fourteen greenhouses hum with activity. Each is a microcosm of specific climates, meticulously controlled by computerized systems. Picture orchids thriving in humid warmth, their delicate blooms destined for the National Museum of American History. Imagine towering palms and fragrant gardenias, patiently waiting their turn to grace the Smithsonian gardens during warmer months. The Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse supports six unique horticultural programs. The Butterfly Greenhouse nurtures nectar plants for the Butterfly Pavilion at the National Museum of Natural History. Think of the horticulturists carefully selecting fresh blooms to ensure a constant feast for the butterflies. In the Interior Plants Greenhouse, tropical and subtropical plants thrive under shaded conditions, mimicking the museum environments they will soon inhabit. They range from tiny terrarium plants to massive cycads. These plants eventually bring life and vibrancy to spaces like the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard. The Smithsonian Gardens Orchid Collection, a nationally accredited treasure, resides within four dedicated greenhouses. Over 6,000 specimens flourish here. They are a crucial resource for scientific research, exhibitions, and educational programs. The Production Greenhouses are a hive of activity. Here, the team cultivates over 60,000 annual and perennial bedding plants each year. They also grow 2,000 poinsettias and 250 hanging baskets. These vibrant displays add splashes of color to the Smithsonian gardens year-round. The Propagation Greenhouse, equipped with an automatic mist system, nurtures delicate seedlings and cuttings. It’s a nursery for the future, ensuring a constant supply of thriving plants. Finally, the Tropical Greenhouses house an impressive array of exotic plants. Some reach a staggering twenty feet tall. These giants require forklifts and flatbed trucks for their annual journey to and from the National Mall. The Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse, a hidden gem, plays a vital role in the beauty and educational mission of the Smithsonian. It’s a testament to the dedication and passion of the horticulturists who work tirelessly behind the scenes, nurturing life that inspires us all.