Science Series

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Science Series

A view from the inside looking out of a glass house, with green plants and fountains in the foreground, and a view through the windows of golden hour, trees, and people approaching.
Holden Barnes

Dates

Saturday, August 16
1:00 PM
Saturday, September 6
1:00 PM
Saturday, October 25
11:00 AM

Location

Conservatory Ballroom

Tickets

Free with Gardens admission

Timed Admission Tickets required

Buy Timed Tickets

Member Reservations

May–October 2025

Timed Reservations required for Members after 3:00 pm Fridays–Sundays

Reservations not required for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators

Member Reservations
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Become a Member and Attend this Event for Free

Become a Member Today

Learn about one of our many plant research and conservation projects and meet the talented staff behind the work.

Please enjoy this recorded presentation entitled Healthy Trees, Healthy Streams: Managing Waterways for a Resilient Future. View schedule below and join us for upcoming online and onsite presentations.

 

Upcoming Presentations

August 16, 2025 at 1:00 pm

Waterlilies and Water Platters: Legacy, Exploration, and Conservation at Longwood

Director of Conservation Horticulture & Collections Peter Zale, Ph.D.

Conservatory Ballroom

From preserving rare species to fostering global collaborations, explore how Longwood is a leader in aquatic plant stewardship. Celebrate the beauty, significance, and global impact aquatic plants while learning about Longwood’s renowned collections of waterlilies and water platters, their stunning diversity, and the artistry of their cultivation. 

Discover how our work with these extraordinary aquatics extends beyond what’s on display, encompassing international plant exploration, seed sharing, and innovative conservation practices. Following the talk, attendees can join a short Waterlily Display Talk at our Waterlily Court led by Horticultural Specialty Grower Tim Jennings and Senior Horticulturist Suzanne Boom.  

September 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm

From Concept to Conservation: The Journey of Longwood’s Meadow Garden

Landscape Architect Jonathan Alderson

Conservatory Ballroom

Learn directly from Meadow Garden designer Jonathan Alderson as he details the story of one of Longwood’s most iconic landscapes, from how this remarkable landscape came to be to how it continues to inspire and connect guests with the natural world. Explore the vision and design process that brought the Meadow Garden to life, the innovative techniques used to create its diverse and thriving ecosystems, and the ongoing management practices that ensure its beauty and biodiversity endure. 

October 25, 2025 at 11:00 am

Reimagining Traditions: A Fresh Look at the Chrysanthemum Festival

Horticultural Specialty Grower Jason Simpson

Conservatory Ballroom

Discover the captivating blend of science and art behind Longwood’s celebrated Chrysanthemum Festival—returning bigger and better than ever in 2025. Join Horticultural Specialty Grower Jason Simpson for a look at the legacy of the chrysanthemum and the creative possibilities of horticulture. Delve into the meticulous horticultural techniques, from intricate training methods to the mastery of creating one-of-a-kind forms, that shape its breathtaking displays. Explore how tradition meets innovation in this iconic festival, as we highlight the artistry, dedication, and scientific expertise that bring it to life.