Cornell Botanic Gardens is an integral part of the Cornell University, local, and regional communities, as well as an expert voice in the broader world of thought and ideas. Learn more on educational opportunities in our gardens, arboretum, and natural areas, and how we are inspiring others to embrace biological and cultural diversity.
Latest Updates
Check out the latest news, events, and happenings at Cornell Botanic Gardens.
Seeds of Survival and Celebration returns
“Seeds of Survival and Celebration: Plants and the Black Experience” honors the plants and plant knowledge significant to African American culture dating to the transatlantic slave trade. This year, the exhibit returns with an expanded plant collection, more stories, and vernacular garden features reflective of African American culture.
Botanic Gardens Lecture Explores the Legacy of W. S. Merwin, Poet, Conservationist, and Gardener
On September 13, 2023, Cornell Botanic Gardens will host Sonnet Kekilia Coggins, executive director of the Merwin Conservancy, who will deliver the 2023 William H. and Jane Torrence Harder Lecture, “What is a Garden? W.S. Merwin’s Life in Poems, Palms, and Place.”
Silver fly takes flight in the fight to save Fall Creek hemlocks
Cornell Botanic Gardens staff and Cornell’s New York State Hemlock Initiative release silver flies to combat an invasive pest devastating hemlock populations.
News and Highlights
See what we’ve been up to recently, as we advance our mission to connect plants and peoples
Peep These Leaves
Ithaca Times — September 14, 2023
Daniel Weitoish, our lead arborist, shares the science behind the color of fall leaves.
A Viable Alternative to Conventional Lawn? Cornell May Have Found One.
New York Times – September 13, 2023
Cornell Botanic Gardens’ native lawn was featured in the New York Times as a viable alternative to conventional lawns and an action every homeowner can take to address the climate crisis and give nature a helping hand.
Summer Fun Fridays: Inside Cornell Botanic Gardens
WENY News — July 21, 2023
The Cornell Botanic Gardens was featured for our abundance of flowers, pollinators, birds, and beautiful natural scenery.
In the News
Read the latest news stories on Cornell Botanic Gardens and articles tapping the knowledge of our staff experts.
Akwe:kon Garden Hopes to Heal and Honor Indigenous Students
Cornell Daily Sun— August 31, 2023
A new garden developed in collaboration with Cornell Botanic Gardens’ Learning by Leading program, offers Indigenous students a place for healing and belonging.
Flat Rock Bridge: Meeting place, a legacy
Tompkins Weekly — April 19, 2023
The Cornell student chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers renovates the Fall Creek pedestrian bridge.
International collaboration strengthens conservation actions for threatened plants
Taiwan News—March 22, 2023
Christopher Dunn and other directors and representatives of nationally important botanical gardens spoke at the international symposium “Plant Ark: 2023 Taiwan Botanical Garden Conservation Action” in Taipei.
Media Inquiries
Our experts can address a range of topics, from practical gardening, to global plant conservation, to safeguarding indigenous cultures. Let us know how we can help you, by contacting Shannon Dortch, associate director, communications and marketing, (607) 255-8618.
Contact Us
Have questions on our news and expertise, or want to share a thought? Let us hear from you!