Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is a 65-acre public garden showcasing the natural beauty of the Allegheny Plateau. In addition to stunning landscapes and seasonal blooms, the Garden offers family-friendly education programs, community events, Canopy Café, Forage & Finds, Garden shop and art exhibitions.
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
The gardens inspire people to value plants, garden design, and the natural world by cultivating plant collections of the Allegheny Plateau and temperate regions, creating display gardens, conducting educational programs, and conserving the environment.
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is a qualified caretaker for 460 acres of southwest Pennsylvania’s land and water. Dedicated staff and volunteers create and maintain this space as a habitat for native flora and fauna.
Central to the story of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is the poor condition of the site it’s on. Left in a deplorable state following coal extraction throughout the first half of the 20th Century, the land was unfit for most uses and even dangerous in spots. Further damage was caused by flooding of the mines beneath the surface in 2004, which exposed a severe acid mine drainage problem.
We’re reclaiming and repairing the land and water. Abandoned mine features, invasive species and poor site conditions are being replaced by educational gardens, reconstructed woodlands, and lovely views. The Garden is providing long-term benefits, including carbon capture, superior soil conservation and lasting habitat improvement.
How You Can Contribute
There are many ways to support the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden and their mission. Memberships include unlimited free visits, many discounts on programs, meals and merchandise, and access to member-only programming. If you want to get a more hands-on experience, volunteer opportunities are available in horticulture, admin, and more. Visit the Garden’s website for details about volunteering and becoming a member.
Donations support education programs, garden operations, conservation projects, and allow the Garden to be a valuable community asset.
Story and Photograph by Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
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