The first botanical garden was developed in 1545 in Padua, Italy, as a "living herbal" (or encyclopedia) of medicinal plants. More recently, the western world has used botanical gardens for purposes ranging from medicine and colonial expansion to plant relationship studies, experimental gardens and genetic protection.
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines botanical garden as:
A place where a wide variety of plants are cultivated for scientific, educational and ornamental purposes, often including a library, a herbarium and greenhouses; an arboretum.
As a young institution, Lauritzen Gardens is currently an educational display garden with its scientific mission yet to be defined. Gained from a visit to Lauritzen Gardens today are tranquility, appreciation of nature's beauty and wonder, inspiration for visitors' own gardens and the pleasure of watching the seasons change and garden spaces evolve through time. In the future, conservation, preservation and the environment will be increasingly emphasized, and research will be introduced as the institution matures.
Botanical gardens teach that nature provides:
Environmental
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clean air and water
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nitrogen cycling
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decomposition
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erosion control
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scientific research
Social/Economical
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food
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shelter
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fuel
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clothing
Cultural
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beauty
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artistic inspiration
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sanctuary
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climate stability
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recreation
Medicinal
A botanical garden is not a:
- park
- recreational trail
- picnic area
- playground
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