Botanical gardens in climate change research

 By Richard B. Primack, Amanda Gallinat, Libby Ellwoood, and Abe Miller-Rushing 

“Do I not live in a garden – in paradise?  I can go out each morning before breakfast & do & and gather flowers, with which to perfume my chamber where I read & write all day.” 

- Henry David Thoreau in his Journal 

In a recent article published in the New Phytologist, we describe the vital and growing contribution of botanical gardens to climate change research, conservation, and public engagement. Botanical gardens host unique resources, including diverse collections of plant species growing in natural conditions and historical records. 

Amanda Gallinat recording fruiting times at the Arnold Arboretum

Researchers utilize networks of botanical garden networks to assess the phenological (timing) responses to climate change of hundreds of plants species. Associated studies include anatomical and physiological  characteristics. 

Launching a drone to monitor leaf out of trees at the Arnold Arboretum

New methods enhance the pace and impact of this research, including phylogenetic analyses that include evolutionary relatedness. Remotely controlled drones are used for monitoring the tree canopy.
 

Students recording phenology at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Botanical gardens have grown their citizen science programs, informing the public about climate change and monitoring plants more intensively than previously possible.