Recently, I visited a local botanical garden to wander through the jungle-y foliage and breathe in the sweet air. (I also basically sweated through my dress, but that’s another story.) Aside from providing a tranquil respite from everyday life, botanical gardens can teach you a lot about plants. Here are some of their main benefits:
View an Ecosystem Up Close
Botanical gardens are brimming with life, from fish-filled ponds and birds to butterflies and bees—all living harmoniously alongside the variety of plant species. This thriving imitation of naturally-occurring ecosystems is a wonder to behold and a perfect reminder of how important every plant, insect, and animal is in preserving the environment. Botanical gardens help ecological restoration efforts, too, with their vast amounts of knowledge and data to ensure the appropriate plants are grown in the proper environment.
Get to Know Your Native Plants
If you’ve been curious about which plants grow best in your climate, your local botanical garden is a great place to research. These gardens always designate a portion of their land to native plant species. You’ll be able to view these plants up close so you can recognize them the next time you visit a garden center or nursery. Native plants are well-suited for feeding native animals and pollinators as well as create a healthy habitat for butterflies and other local insects. They’re almost always the best choice for gardens or landscaping.
Participate in Educational Classes
Many botanical gardens provide learning opportunities through classes and workshops. These educational programs range from family-friendly activities and day camps, field trips and nature walks, and courses on botany, plant identification, propagation, gardening, native plants, and more. Generally free, or included in a membership, these activities are great ways to become more knowledgeable about plants and meet like-minded people.
Learn About Plant Conservation
Botanical gardens exist for a greater purpose than providing visitors with pleasant experience. They also provide a base for education and research, preservation of endangered plants, ecological conservation, and stewardship of the environment. Botanical gardens play a large role in growing and preserving plants from around the world. This contributes the the diversity showcased in their gardens and the exotic plants available for purchase at a garden’s annual plant sale.
Have a Sensory Experience in Nature
Best of all for visitors, botanical gardens provide a complete sensory experience with their diversity of plant and animal life. Visiting a garden is an ideal way to connect with nature while getting exercise walking the numerous trails. In addition to the abundance of beauty at botanical gardens, you’ll reap the health benefits of being outdoors, including an improved mood. You may just find yourself wanting to volunteer a few hours a week at your local garden!
Do you have a local botanical garden? Check out this list of gardens and arboretums by state if you’re not sure. If you’ve visited a local garden, I’d love to know about your experience!
XO,
Micah
Beautiful! Can’t wait to explore Meijer Gardens one day… 🙂
One of my all-time favorite places!