The Purdue Horticulture Society embarked on the annual spring trip on March 28-30. This year the club picked Louisville to explore a botanical garden and arboretum. This annual trip provided members with an opportunity to expand their knowledge of horticulture and appreciate the beauty of diverse plant collections.
Figure 1. Purdue Horticulture Society at Waterfront Botanical Gardens in Louisville, KY.
On March 29, the group visited the Waterfront Botanical Gardens, a vibrant, urban oasis dedicated to sustainable gardening and environmental education. Situated on a former landfill site, the gardens exemplify how revitalized spaces can become thriving centers of biodiversity. Students marveled at the lush plantings, innovative landscape designs, and eco-friendly initiatives aimed at conservation and education.
On March 30, the group traveled to the renowned Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, a sprawling 16,000-acre natural preserve that blends art, science, and conservation. With its extensive collection of trees, wildflowers, and diverse ecosystems, the students were able to immerse themselves in the collections available at the arboretum. Highlights of the visit included a hike through the arboretum’s scenic trails, encounters with the famous Forest Giants art installation, and early blooming trees and shrubs.
The trip was made possible through funding from the Purdue Horticulture Society’s annual Spring Plant Sale, held during Spring Fest. This fundraiser provides essential support for club activities, including educational trips like this one. The 2025 Spring Plant Sale will take place on April 12, offering annuals, houseplants, and succulents grown by students. Proceeds from the sale help fund future club events and hands-on learning opportunities.
