Horticultural Gardens at West Central Research and Outreach Center
Address
46353 State Highway 329 Morris, MN 56267
Phone Number
320-589-1711
Fax Number
(320) 589-4870
Run by
University of Minnesota
Date Established
1896
Cost
No admission fee
Peak Season
Summer
Peak season (notes)
Mid to late summer
Late summer for ornamental grasses
Region
Central
Garden Type
All American Selections Display Garden
Extras
Free parking on site
Hosts annual event – "Horticulture Night"
Comments
The horticulture program began at the University of Minnesota Morris in the 1920’s and at that time display gardens existed throughout the campus. In 1972, formal evaluations of floral families were begun. In 1973, the gardens moved to their current location, slightly off the main campus. Since 1990, the gardens have been an All-American selections display site. Besides serving research purposes for the University, the gardens are a wonderful resource for the public as well. They artfully display varieties of delphiniums, begonias and New Guinea impatiens. Species trials are also on display of ornamental grasses and perennial and annual flowers. Demonstration and educational displays include a children’s garden, a heritage garden and a water garden. A shelter belt of trees on the southern edge of the research center provides shade for collections of hosta, lady slippers and shady perennials. The grounds are extensive, well maintained and plants are displayed in appealing, aesthetic configurations, which include benches and arbors. Plants are well labeled.