… in how species interactions, population dynamics, and the timing of biological events respond to various types of environmental changes. My work so far has investigated the consequences of … studies, and population modeling, my research currently explores three key questions: Why is there so much variation in how species adjust their biological timing to a changing climate? What are the demographic consequences of changing environmental conditions …
Type: Staff bio
… Winter is a great time to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and wildlife around you. After a big snow, I encourage you to take a walk around your neighborhood—or at the Chicago Botanic Garden and other green space—to …
Type: Blog
… might have two plants developing inflorescences at the same time. But it did not take too long to brainstorm some ideas on what we hope to learn from this rare possibility. The plants have been named Java and Sumatra, in recognition … the nation of Indonesia. Amorphophallus titanum , the Latin name for the titan arum species, is native to the island of Sumatra. The corms of the Titan Twins were almost identical in weight …
Type: Blog
… table…but have you thought about a centerpiece yet? A cornucopia, or horn of plenty, is a classically beautiful, easy, and crowd-pleasing way to pull together a centerpiece without a lot of fuss or expense. I taught a fall cornucopia … is basically the same. Once your supplies are gathered, it should take less than an hour to put together. Essential tools include pruners, floral foam, and a hot-glue gun. Gather the …
Type: Blog
… of Aquatics I work with the Assistant Ecologist, Lakes and the team of Aquatic Seasonals to maintain our lake systems and the 240+ native plant species that help stabilize our shorelines. To maintain this large area, we focus on efficient methods of invasive management while evolving … closer to people in urban settings by giving them a taste of what was once here and what is possible. …
Type: Staff bio
… and distribution of fungi and the factors influencing these patterns. Thus, in addition to spearheading survey and inventory projects in China and Latin America and undertaking … of Laccaria – Hydnangium clade and other model taxa, I have investigatied how fungi respond to anthropogenic stress and restoration efforts in the Chicago area, conservation practices in … China, and past geological events like the Great American Interchange. Fungal conservation is currently a major focus of my efforts. This includes capacity building, raising awareness, …
Type: Staff bio
… To most people, the word “pollinator” is synonymous with the word “bee,” but only a fraction of plants are pollinated by bees. In … pollinators—bats, birds, beetles, moths, and more. As part of National Moth Week , we wanted to highlight our work on a very special group of moths: the Sphingidae, or hawkmoths, which …
Type: Blog
… the Grounds department since 1991, when he started out as a seasonal employee. He was promoted to Grounds crew leader in 2009. Patino has broad expertise in landscaping, particularly in … shrubs. You can see his work at the Linden Allée—he does almost all the pruning. Also, Patino is the lead employee on the team that puts outdoor lights on the large trees for Wonderland …
Type: Staff bio
… the overall health of all of the turf areas with an integrated pest management program that is designed to reduce the use of pesticides. Fritz grew up in Kankakee, just south of Chicago. He received an … at the Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields, Illinois. From there, he continued to grow his love for the turf industry at numerous golf courses throughout the Chicago area. …
Type: Staff bio
… Chicago high school students from the Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy (IHSCA) sought to find the answer. The Chicago Botanic Garden’s Healing Environments Ambassadors Learning … launched in April 2019. The program connects high school students, their schools, and families to the health-promoting benefits of nature. Over the course of a spring-to-spring year, including … the entrance of the Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy (IHSCA). The program’s leader is Vincent Gomez, manager of horticultural therapy services at the Chicago Botanic Garden. “The …
Type: Blog