Abstract

The initiation of a new public horticulture institution is a substantial process involving a wide range of activities. More than 25 public horticulture institutions in the United States and Canada have opened to the public or begun the planning process since 2000. Using the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden (PJCBG) in Kernersville, NC as a case study this research explores the complex process of starting new institutions of public horticulture.

A comprehensive analysis of the developmental activities of the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden, which as of December of 2008 is currently under construction, occurred through site visits, a review of documentation, and most significantly in-depth interviews with 15 stakeholders related to the project. Beyond full participation from the garden's executive director, varying perspectives were collected within the institution's community including those from board members, politicians, green industry members, garden staff, an educator, a professional fundraiser, and landscape architects and designers.

Telling the story of bringing the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden into existence highlights the general blueprint and concerns for any new public horticulture institution. The information gleaned from the case study is complemented by data from a survey distributed among other experts who have or are leading efforts in creating new public horticulture institutions.

Combining the narrative of the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden with the quantitative information of the survey allows for comparison among different institutions. Through data analysis, seven major themes for the planning new public horticulture institutions were elucidated: Mission, Vision, and Goals; Incorporation, Board Development, and Governance; Site Selection, Planning, and Design; Financial Support, Collaboration, and Advocacy; Staffing and Volunteers; Developing and Maintaining a Plant Collection; and Public Image.

This research benefits new public horticulture institutions by presenting key aspects of creating a new botanic garden or arboretum. By instigating communication about the initiation process and sharing stories and information, awareness will be brought to the sector of public horticulture that will strengthen and facilitate the creation process of new public horticulture institutions.