Looking for a plant experience that is close to home?
I have been trying for a while to get to the UW Biology Greenhouse for a tour, but the hours are limited with the greenhouse only open Thursdays, 12:00-4:00 p.m. and the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, from 10:00-2:00 pm. (through May 2024). But the planets aligned this past Saturday when I happened to be cruising by and saw that they were open!
Get a little Vitamin D for free!
During my visit they had four rooms open for viewing, ranging from desert plants to hot tropical flora. There were many students working in the lab that were willing to answer my questions. Since I focus on growing vegetables, I was not familiar with any of these species of plants.
The facilities were interesting to walk through and see the equipment and environmental variables that are controlled in this state of the art facility. I felt positive and energized after my visit with the dose of “sunshine” I received while walking through.
While the new greenhouses right off the Burke Gilman trail opened a a few years ago, this program has been in place for nearly 70 years and has played a vital role in research and teaching. Whether focusing on plant-pollinator interactions, paleoclimatology, or other biological questions, the large collection has enhanced and inspired UW biological research.
They also offer scheduled group tours for parties of 8 or more people by arrangement only. Tour Request, Volunteer opportunities and Venue rental information is located here. Give it a try, it’s a nice, warm, bright escape on these dark, dreary Pacific Northwest winter days!