Hundreds of vibrant annuals greet you. Welcome to the Department of Horticultural Science Display and Trial Garden. This isn’t just any garden. It’s a living laboratory a testament to decades of horticultural dedication.
Established in the late 1970s this plot near Gortner and Folwell Avenues has a rich history. Initially the Department of Horticultural Science Display and Trial Garden focused on testing annuals. Hundreds of All American Selections and Proven Winners were planted. Faculty meticulously observed their growth and assessed their suitability for Minnesota’s unique summers. They evaluated size flowering times and overall performance. Think of it as a beauty pageant for blooms a rigorous selection process for the hardiest and most dazzling plants.
But the Department of Horticultural Science Display and Trial Garden is more than just a testing ground. Today its purpose is primarily educational. The garden serves as a vital training ground for future horticulturalists. Student interns gain hands-on experience in landscape management and public outreach. They learn not just how to plant and prune but also how to manage a public garden. They interact with the community sharing their horticultural knowledge and passion. Several university courses utilize this space offering students an immersive learning environment. The students study plant science or sustainable agriculture and food systems. They learn up close observing plants and insects a memorable learning experience.
The Department of Horticultural Science Display and Trial Garden isn’t just for students. It hosts public programs throughout the year. One noteworthy collaboration involves the Extension Master Gardeners. They partner with the University’s Recreation and Wellness Center for Gopher Adventures. This summer program introduces children to the joys of gardening. It connects kids with gardening harvesting and even eating the fruits of their labor. They call it Goldy’s Garden a playful name for this educational oasis.
Recent improvements have enhanced the visitor experience. Trees have been pruned perennial gardens planted around a pond. New seating allows visitors to relax and appreciate the beauty. There are plans for further transformation. The roadside along Folwell Avenue is being converted to a vibrant prairie landscape. Native plants like false indigo will create a visually striking and low-maintenance space. This showcases the garden’s commitment to sustainable and resilient landscaping.
The Department of Horticultural Science Display and Trial Garden is a vibrant hub of learning and community engagement. It’s a place where research education and public appreciation for horticulture converge. Take a stroll. Discover the beauty and the stories hidden within these carefully cultivated rows. Enjoy the sun the vibrant colors and the feeling of being surrounded by a legacy of horticultural expertise.