History
UD developed this interdisciplinary Center to build on its rich history of public horticulture education and research. Since 1967, UD has been a leader in public horticulture through the Longwood Graduate Program, and through the UD Botanic Gardens, which originated in the 1950’s.
The Center has developed over four years of planning, starting with an M.S. research project begun in July, 2004. Over seventy-five leaders (PDF) in public horticulture from across the country have helped shape the Center through participation in interviews, focus groups, surveys, and informal discussions. These leaders include representatives from
- Public gardens
- The APGA Board of Directors and standing committees
- UD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Other academic institutions
- Other related centers and institutes
- Government agencies
- The green industry
Needs Assessment of Public Horticulture
The Center was created to address the needs in the field (PDF) of public horticulture. According to leaders in public horticulture, these needs include:
- Well-trained new employees
- Training for existing professionals
- Research on issues in public horticulture
- Leadership
- Unity and collaboration