Plants & Gardens Blog

Four million years ago, plants were small and relatively simple in structure. How did they evolve into tree-sized organisms with roots, leaves, wood, and seeds? Read › Great Moments in Plant Evolution, Part 2: The Origin of Trees and Forests

Early estimates put the amount of sunlight lost at 1.5 to more than 4 hours per day, depending on the greenhouse and the season. The heaviest losses occur during spring, summer, and fall, when plants need the most sunlight. Read › See How Proposed Towers Would Cast Shadows Over the Garden

What better way to celebrate the fall season than with some apple-themed recipes? Read › Warm Up with Apple Butter and Cinnamon Apple Chips (Recipes)

One of the great songbirds of North America, the unassuming winter wren looks a bit like a mouse. True to its name, it's easier to find in Brooklyn in the winter months. Read › Birds of Brooklyn: Winter Wren

This month, Adrian Benepe joins Brooklyn Botanic Garden as its seventh president. At a time of historic challenge, he shares his thoughts on the role botanic gardens can play in sustainable cities, resilient communities, and our collective mental health. Read › Q&A with Brooklyn Botanic Garden President Adrian Benepe

Have you ever wondered how seeds manage to get from place to place so new plants can grow everywhere? Read › Learn How Seeds Travel and Design Your Own Seed Pod (Activity)

On top of the Garden’s Visitor Center is a beautiful and functional green roof that looks like a prairie and helps reduce water pollution stormwater. Read › Get to Know the Garden’s Green Roof

What gives leaves their color? You can get a good look using a simple technique called chromatography. Read › See Chlorophyll and Other Leaf Pigments with Chromatography (Activity)

When plant scientists want to learn more about something, they open it up and examine it. Dissect a pumpkin to learn more about the botanical role of fruit parts. Read › Dissect a Pumpkin (Activity)

Most tomato plants actually produce well into September or even October. Maximize your late tomato harvest with a few tips, and use your bounty in this delicious and easy salsa recipe. Read › Eat Local: Late Season Tomato Tips and Easy Salsa Recipe