Horticultural Gardens at West Central Research and Outreach Center

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.