Botanic Garden

In the last few years, the garden has been improved with the establishment of a new garden program and master plan, new paths, and renovations to the greenhouse. While phase one of construction is complete, phase two, which includes significant infrastructure improvement, will hopefully be completed in the next couple of years.

The botanic garden is developing into a center for ecologically appropriate thought, native plant propagation for restoration, and general environmental sustainability. Connected to the Sustainability Committee and the sustainability goals for Mills College, the botanic garden displays a number of "green" design principles and practices: i.e., composting, water conservation, and natural design.

Mills community members find that learning and participating in the garden brings a great sense of accomplishment, a connection to the Earth and community, as well as a relaxing opportunity to be outdoors. Students have been involved in different academic studies within the garden, including creating new thematic beds or propagating local native plants. There are always opportunities for all Mills community members to be involved in the garden, from casual volunteering, to academic studies, to participation in the developing community garden space.

The future hopefully holds continued garden growth and appreciation, especially as an academic resource which supports community wellbeing and ecological awareness. To learn more, stop by the garden during the week to speak to the garden coordinator or email cmcwhort@mills.edu.