Solving a taxonomic and biogeographic puzzle with Physocarpus
The geographic distributions of plants that we see today provide a glimpse of the past. They are snapshots in a much longer story driven by major events such as the formation of mountain ranges
Regenerative Soil
Among the building blocks that form a regenerative system at Chatfield Farms, soil is the foundation. Perhaps the most important measurement of a “regenerative soil” is carbon sequestration, or how
City Nature Challenge: Meet Your Neighbors
We cordially invite you to participate in this year’s City Nature Challenge, April 29 – May 2. It’s an opportunity to take a closer look at the life that’s all around us – and make some introductions
How to estimate a total population size of a rare plant and why it matters
Conservation of rare species involves knowing where they are found and how many individuals are in a population. If a species can only survive in certain habitats, then any changes to that habitat can
The Relevance of Biodiversity Data
The digital age gave us a new dimension that infiltrates nearly all aspects of our existence. But, as we navigate this decade, the bearing that nature holds on our everyday lives has reestablished
Made in the Shade: Planning a future where trees and people thrive
Coloradoans know a thing or two about seeking out shade on a hot day. But unless up in the mountains, trees in Colorado only persist near water bodies or with some help from people via irrigation. Our
A Case for Defining Regenerative Agriculture
It’s no secret that organic food is trendy. But why? Consumers believe that organic is better for the environment and better for their health. In some cases, this is true, in others, not so much
Why DNA? Inside the Genetics Laboratory
The opening of the Freyer – Newman Center in 2020 provided Denver Botanic Gardens with numerous new spaces such as classrooms, art galleries and library. Another new space is the genetics laboratory
Unique finds in Colorado’s flora
Our knowledge of the flora of Colorado is ever evolving, thanks to continued botanical explorations to under-surveyed areas of the state. Recently, two new species were added to the list of plants
Plant Evolution in Our Backyards
Plants are masterful problem-solvers because they must adjust to their environment in place. Unlike animals, they can’t simply move to a new location if they are hot, thirsty or under threat from
From the Vault: A Rare, Exciting Find on the High Line Canal
It was October of 2021, nearly two years after I had finished my master’s degree with Denver Botanic Gardens, when I got an email that made my jaw drop like a ton of bricks. It was from Virginia Scott
Which Traits Make Plants Most Vulnerable to Extinction?
I am in the very fortunate position that I can translate my work at Denver Botanic Gardens into a doctorate in integrative and systems biology from the University of Colorado, Denver. I’m gaining new