Volunteers have always been integral to Denver Botanic Gardens’ success. In fact, our natural history collections</a> are the result of hard work by devoted volunteers. Kathryn Kalmbach and several other volunteers from the Colorado Forestry and Horticulture Association started collecting pressings of both native and cultivated plants for their herbarium in 1943. The collection was moved to the Gardens and formally dedicated as the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium</a> in November 1960. The Sam Mitchel Herbarium of Fungi</a> is named for Dr. Duane “Sam” Mitchel, a medical internist in Denver who had a collection of mushrooms from Colorado. His fungal herbarium came to the Gardens in the 1960s.</p> </picture> </div> </article> Dr. Duane “Sam” Mitchel working on his microscope in the old herbarium space.</span></span></span></em></p> In the early days, Kathryn, Sam and other volunteers were the main contributors of specimens to the collections. They identified, processed and accessioned all their incoming plants and fungi. Over time, the Research & Conservation Department was established to oversee the herbaria as the Gardens was able to hire on some of the herbarium volunteers as staff. Now, the Research & Conservation Department is even more expanded, but volunteers still make up a huge portion of the processing effort for the collection of nearly 100,000 specimens.</p> </picture> </div> </article> Long-time volunteer Eleanor Von Bargen preparing orchid specimens for inclusion in the herbarium when it was located in the Boettcher Memorial Center.</span></span></span></em></p> In fall 2019 we stopped large-scale herbarium processing in preparation for the collections move into the new Freyer – Newman Center for Science, Art and Education. It was the first time that the herbaria were effectively closed to volunteers for any extended period. Volunteers were going to be invited back right after the move, however, while the collections move went smoothly</a>, the return of herbarium volunteers was dealt another blow – a global pandemic. Following safety guidelines, we had to curtail all volunteer activities in the herbarium.</p> </picture> </div> </article> Long-time volunteer and adjunct researcher Loraine Yeatts on a botanical survey collecting plant specimens for the Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium.</span></span></span></em></p> The past year and a half have given the Research & Conservation Department staff a chance to reflect on the importance of our devoted volunteers. We wouldn’t be where we are today without them and we can’t keep up with processing without their continued assistance. Volunteers support research happening across the globe by helping us make our specimen data publishable online</a>. They transcribe data, identify plants and fungi, prepare specimens for long-term storage and image specimens so they may be freely accessed by anyone with internet. We miss our wonderful volunteers and can’t wait to invite them back when the world is a little safer. If you’d like to volunteer in the herbarium in the future, please visit our website</a>. </p>
Mention the name “orchid” and most people imagine brightly colored exotic flowers growing in hot, humid rainforests of the tropics. Many Coloradans are surprised to learn that a number of these striking rarities grow within our state’s own borders. In fact, depending on taxonomic classification, at least 25 different orchid species can be found growing in Colorado. </p> Most of our native orchids are more diminutive than their tropical relatives and can be hard to find, but they possess a unique beauty all their own. The reward in spotting these elusive flowers is in their intricacies and the joy of the hunt. Since our native orchids are dormant most of the year, you must know their growth cycles and preferred habitats to spot them in the wild. Most occur in moist, shaded ravines between 8,000 and 11,000 feet in elevation and peak bloom can be from late May through early September depending on the species. </p> Orchids require a very specific environment for healthy growth and will not be happy in most home gardens. Not only is it irresponsible to remove plants from the wild, it is often illegal. If you stumble upon any of Colorado’s native orchids on one of your hiking adventures – step lightly and do not pick any plants or flowers. Do take plenty of photos to share with friends as proof of your botanical expertise. </p>
Once considered a hobby for the elite, new propagation techniques and the mass production of orchids has made the joy of growing these amazing plants accessible to everyone. Not too long ago, the only place to find orchids to purchase was through mail order catalogs. Now, they can be found at almost any garden center, box store or even your local grocer. Unfortunately, orchids have the undeserved reputation of being difficult to cultivate in the home. While this may be true of some orchid species, thankfully there are hundreds, if not thousands, of orchid species and hybrids now available to hobbyist. If you can grow a houseplant in a windowsill, there is an orchid for you. </p> Good Plants for Beginners</h4> One of the best pieces of advice I ever received concerning growing healthy orchids was to research what conditions a plant wants and then provide those conditions. Sounds simple – right? Put another way: Don’t set yourself up for failure. Know what conditions you can provide and choose a suitable plant with those conditions in mind. Some of the best choices for the first time orchid grower are:</p> Phalaenopsis </em>– Perhaps the number one choice for the first-time orchid grower is the Phalaenopsis</em>, or moth orchid. They readily adapt to our home conditions and reward the grower with flowers that can last for months at a time. Phalaenopsis </em>plants prefer warm temperatures, low light levels and need to stay constantly moist (but never soggy). </p> </picture> </div> </div> </article> </p> Paphiopedilum </em>– Another popular choice for beginning orchid growers are Paphiopedilum</em>, or slipper orchids. The flowers can be so ugly they are beautiful – it’s all in the eye of the beholder. Paphiopedilum </em>orchids generally prefer low light levels, warm temperatures and must stay moist but not soggy. Paphiopedilum </em>flowers are also long-lasting.</p> </picture> </div> </div> </article> </p> Dendrobium </em>– The genus Dendrobium </em>contains hundreds of species so there are a wide variety of cultural requirements for this group of plants. Most sold in garden centers will require bright light but can dry out slightly between waterings. Some will require a dry rest period in the fall and/or a drop in temperatures to encourage good blooming. You’ll need to research the specific Dendrobium </em>you have.</p> </picture> </div> </div> </article> </p> Now that you’ve successfully grown and bloomed your first orchid, the sky is the limit! With so many species and hybrids to grow, an orchid hobby can last a lifetime. You can expand your orchid knowledge with the hundreds of books available on the subject, by researching online or by joining a local or national orchid society. And be sure to visit our Orchid Showcase</a>. The possibilities are endless.</p> As your friends admire your beautiful orchids they will marvel at your horticultural prowess. I’ll let you decide whether or not to tell them that it really isn’t as hard as they might believe.</p> Please note: The Orchid Showcase will be closed to the public on Sunday, Jan. 29.</em></p>
Does winter have your kiddo dreaming for warmer weather? Get them excited by planning for spring break and summer camps with the Gardens!</p> The Gardens has kids-only camps that are full of garden explorations, games, activities, cooking and plants to take home. Camps take place at York Street and Chatfield Farms and are for ages 6-12. </p> Spring Break Camp</h4> Spring Break Camp is a fun week of exploration and crafts at the Gardens. Kids discover signs of spring in nature and design a miniature garden to take home. Registration opens January 20 at noon!</strong> Spring Break Camp runs March 29 – April 2. </p> Summer Camps</h4> At Garden Camps at York Street, kids discover the world around them through art, science, gardening and outdoor exploration.</p> At Chatfield Farms, they explore nature along Deer Creek, meet our farm animals and learn how to grow their own food while immersed in life on the farm.</p> Summer Camps are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and registration opens March 3 at noon</strong>.</p> </picture> </div> </article> </p> Denver Botanic Gardens is taking all necessary precautions to make sure your child has a safe and fun camp experience while adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols.</p> Email gardencamp@botanicgardens.org</a> with questions. Learn more about camps</a> and our COVID-19 policies and get ready to get outside! </p>
There is no doubt that 2020 will go down as one of the roughest, most turbulent years in our history. It is a relief then that we take stock at the end of December and warmly look forward to better days as we flip the calendar. Of course, nothing but human civilizations work on calendars. Seasons maybe, but not calendars. We are left alone to wonder what 2021 will bring.</p> Imagine my disappointment when I searched around the internet to determine when exactly the Age of Aquarius would begin. There has been some social media buzz about it lately. I remember the song and it sounds pretty cool – peace will guide the planets and love will steer the stars</em> – that type of thing. We could sure use some of that right now. But no one seems to agree on when this might ensue, nor, I suspect, how any of that works. The range of possible start dates spans about 800 years, with some special attention on the winter solstice just passed in 2020.</p> So instead, maybe we should focus on two critical human passions – the pursuit of scientific understanding and the messy job of holding society together.</p> </picture> </div> </article> Spores on a prepared slide of Coprinus comatus.</em></span></span></p> If all goes well, by the time you are reading this, we will be well into the deployment of COVID-19 vaccinations. We are told the speed of creating this wave of vaccines was aided greatly by advancements in genomics and computers, many disciplines merging into a single focus.</p> The Gardens is taking a giant scientific leap this year when we will be able to fully utilize our new capacities thanks to the Freyer – Newman Center, including state-of-the-art labs and herbaria. Our team is ready to hit the trails again this summer doing field research in the southern Rocky Mountain region. We are also upping our engagement in three critical areas: soil health, water conservation and carbon capturing, and sustainable agriculture.</p> Regarding the messy job… The thought occurred to me a couple of months ago that the world would be a great deal calmer if it were all a botanic garden. Every day, I see the diversity of humanity wander through our grounds. They seem genuinely moved, happier than when they arrived, and almost entirely kind-hearted. It could be the perspective gardens bring to us, or the wonder, perhaps a refreshing sense of grateful humility. Whatever the influences, let’s take note of it. When we needed healing, some semblance of community and a little peace the most, public gardens were there for us.</p> Without a crystal ball, a defining astrological age or a soothsayer, let’s decide that by our actions we will determine how to replace a no good, horrible year with one of promise and joy.</p> Onward.</p> The winter issue of Inside the Gardens</a> is out now. Read it and other issues of the Gardens’ magazine to learn more about Denver Botanic Gardens' efforts. </em> </p>
In a normal January, we usually offer a walking tour of some of the indoor tropical display areas. This year has been anything but normal. Since this tour must be virtual and walking around the display areas is not an option, why not go to some spaces where the public is not allowed to walk to at all? Join me in the collection greenhouses to see what’s going on.</p> </p> Amorphophallus titanum</em></h3> Corpse flowers alternate between vegetative (leaf) and reproductive (flowering) growth phases. Both Stinky and Little Stinker are currently in the early stages of a 12-14 month vegetative growth spurt. During this period, the single leaf of each plant is collecting energy through photosynthesis to power the next flowering. Since producing such a big floral display takes so much energy, it may take more than one vegetative stage to store up the energy needed to pull off the next show. With that in mind, it will likely be at least summer of 2022 before we see another odiferous display.</p> Lithops </h3> Lithops (sometimes known as Living Stones) are small succulent plants native to rocky grassland areas of South Africa. The base of the plant is often buried in rock or sand, reducing the amount of light that the plants receive. The translucent cap on each leaf allows light to enter the interior of the leaf, allowing photosynthesis to occur from the inside out.</p> Visitors often ask, "Where do you get all these cool plants?" One important source is a program known as Index Seminum </em>– Latin for "Seed Index." Hundreds of botanic gardens and arboreta from around the world participate in this program to share seeds from their collections with other botanical/research institutions. These tiny Lithops lesliei </em>seedlings grew from seed provided by The University of Tübingen, Germany.</p> Victoria amazonica</em></h3> This vial of seeds (currently in cool storage) contains the promise of a stunning summer display of giant water platters – Victoria amazonica</em>. In February/March, these seeds will be started in small pots of soil placed in heated tubs of water in our collection greenhouses. The seedlings will then be moved to the outdoor pools (usually sometime in June, weather permitting) and will reach their full glory in July and August. It is remarkable growth in such a short amount of time. Here is more information on this process.</a></p> Miniature Orchids</h3> Many of the orchids in the Gardens’ collection are brought from the collection houses to public display areas as they come into bloom. But some are just too small and delicate to be moved to the less-than-optimum conditions some of the public areas provide. One such beauty is Lepanthes telipogoniflora</em>. This miniature plant comes from warm and very humid areas of Colombia where it grows as an epiphyte attached to tree limbs. The tiny flowers (about 1/2 inch) arise from leaf axis’s supporting leaves of about the same size.</p> Dracaena masoniana</em></h3> As more information about plant relationships emerge, name changes are sometimes needed to reflect this new knowledge (much to the consternation of many horticulturists). Some of you may know this plant as Sansevieria masoniana</em> and others just as Snake Plant, but the correct name (for now) is Dracaena masoniana</em>. Winter months can be a good time to catch up on some reading and take in all these name changes, if you’re into that sort of thing. </p> Dracaena masoniana</em> is a spectacular plant–whatever the name. It is native to central Africa and because of its potentially massive size, it is sometimes known as the whale fin snake plant.</p> </p> I hope you’ve enjoyed this peek behind the scenes. We look forward to the day we can re-open our public tropical display areas!</p>
The Freyer – Newman Center is the home of two new labs—a genetics and tissue culture lab and one facilitating ecological research, such as seed germination studies. For the Research and Conservation Department’s genetic program, these new labs serendipitously align with implementation of new state-of-the-art methodologies. </p> Often referred to as next-generation sequencing, these methodologies are being applied to the Gardens’ objectives of rare plant conservation, taxonomic studies and documenting Rocky Mountain fungal biodiversity. Two graduate students jointly advised by University of Colorado Denver and Gardens faculty and a seasonal mycology specialist have been busy all summer and fall generating DNA sequence data. </p> Master’s student Gary Olds is researching an efficient method to effectively sample large numbers of fungal specimens at once, in order to answer key taxonomic questions. This research is important as fungal diversity is widely under-studied in North America, and he will use these new techniques as a proof-of-concept that the number of specimens can be substantially ramped-up per study. He is using the ~400 specimens from genus Lactarius</em>, or the milk-cap mushrooms, occurring in the Southern Rocky Mountains. </p> Another related project is being conducted by Justin Loucks, who is contributing field collections and DNA sequence data towards an understanding of Idaho's macrofungal diversity, under a grant from the Stuntz Mycology Fund. After two weeks of collecting specimens in the remote Lemhi Range, his project increased records accessioned into the Sam Mitchel Herbarium of Fungi for the region from 13 (all collected 100+ years ago), to 71. These field collections, accompanied by DNA sequence data, help to fill the massive gap in our understanding of North American macrofungi and their distributions. </p> The gap in biodiversity data is common with North American fungi, where species are often described according to their morphological (physical) similarity to European species. This can be problematic because morphology alone can be complicated and misleading in organisms like fungi. Genetic studies can help tease-out the species boundaries of closely related macrofungi, increasing our knowledge of biodiversity.</p> Lastly, Master’s student Emily Orr is conducting a population genomic analysis of one of Colorado’s rarest plants: Astragalus microcymbus</em>. The Gardens’ interest in the conservation of this species is extensive, as long-term demographic monitoring has been conducted by our team since 1995. Using next-generation RADseq methodology, underlying patterns of genetic diversity, inbreeding and population structure will be evaluated to complement the management of this species, which occupies an extremely small range. </p> Despite being closed to the public for the time being, the Center is accommodating some pretty cool science behind the scenes. </p>
