“I believe it is in our nature to explore, to reach out into the unknown.” Sir Ernest Shackleton We all have our version of the unknown; the uncomfortable ignorance that lies just beyond our comfort zones. As kids, most dream of becoming explorers but few dare to take that leap; to reach out to all…
SAGE: Connecting Young Adults to Nature Through Service
The bitter cold is still hanging on for now, but preparations for summertime will be underway before we know it. Warmer weather means countless chances to get to the Garden, and for young adults interested in the natural world, the SAGE (Students as Garden Educators) program offers an opportunity to spend a productive summer out…
Make an Ice Mobile
What kind of art can you create? Does the time of year affect what kind of art projects you make? Do you have a favorite seasonal art project? Making daisy chains in spring, building sand castles in summer, and carving Jack-O-Lanterns in autumn are some of our seasonal favorites. But what kind of art do…
Orchid Cultivation for the Home Gardener
Every year, the Orchid Show turns the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Orthwein Display Hall into a tropical oasis brimming with vibrant, blooming orchids. Visitors can take in a display that features between 400 and 500 orchids from the Garden’s permanent collect, which includes about 6,300 orchids. The display is lovely, and can also leave the home…
The Grasses of George Washington Carver
Carver’s contributions to botanical science, agriculture, and education extend far beyond the popularity of peanuts. The Garden’s Herbarium gives us a glimpse of his botanical training before that breakthrough.
Sweet and Sustainable Treats
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, which means that many people will be seeking out chocolates and other candies for their loved ones. This is a great opportunity to shop sustainably! Check out some recommendations for sustainable chocolate from the EarthWays Center. Where Does Your Chocolate Come From? Chocolate is derived from the seeds…
Protecting Houseplants from Pests
The cold weather may be keeping you away from your backyard garden, but it’s a wonderful time to focus on your plants indoors. Winter is also when houseplants are especially susceptible to issues like pests. The shorter days mean a reduced photosynthetic output, which in turn means plants can produce fewer protective chemicals. Reduced humidity…
Accomplish Your Gardening Goals for the New Year by Starting a Garden Journal
The New Year is a wonderful time to refresh, make goals for the year ahead, and get more yourself organized. If gardening is an area where you could use more organization, a garden journal is a wonderful solution. In addition to helping with organization, garden journals can help you increase productivity in your garden, collect…
Discover + Share: The Best of 2018
2018 was a year of change and growth at the Missouri Botanical Garden. We celebrated the opening of our historic Museum building, along with new rooms in Tower Grove House. There were big anniversaries and new events. Our commitment to plant science grew as our researchers described new species and worked to protect them. Our…
Spotlight on Science: Ashley Glenn
Ashley Glenn, Research Specialist, William L. Brown Center For many people, holidays bring warm memories of a delicious meal shared with family or friends. Maybe it’s a Christmas feast or traditional Hanukkah foods. For Garden Scientist Ashley Glenn, the holidays mean Christmas cookies baked with heirloom recipes and time spent making and jarring gallons of…
Caring for Your Cut Christmas Tree
Choosing a fresh fir over a plastic pine for your Christmas tree has some definite perks. There’s the chance to make special memories cutting a tree down at a farm or carefully choosing the right one from a lot. And, of course, there’s the irreplaceable fresh evergreen smell that comes with a cut Christmas tree….
Veg Out for the Holidays
With the holidays upon us, many families and friends are planning gatherings and celebratory meals—most of them likely centering on meat. To help make this holiday season more sustainable, the EarthWays Center suggests adding some vegetarian and vegan alternatives to your dinner table. Why Eat Less Meat? Vegetarians and vegans are familiar with the question—why…
