Botanical Garden

Origin and historical purpose of botanical gardens

-Originated in the 16th century

-Used to grow medicinal plants for doctors and pharmacists

-Often connected to universities

-Valencia botanical garden originated in 1567

-Originally used to study medical plants

-Extended to include global plant collections, research, and conservation

Main uses of botanical gardens

Education- Teaches plant biology, ecology, and sustainability, offers activities and tour groups for students

Conservation- Protects endangered species and maintains seed banks and living collections

Research- Study plant physiology, climate adaptation, and biodiversity, provide university students with resources to support scientific discovery

Public Awareness- Help students understand climate change and environmental issues

Promote sustainable practices

Differentiate between climate and weather using clear examples observed during the visi

Weather-short term climate

Climate-Long term average patterns (years and decades)

Key characteristics of the Mediterranean climate

temperature patterns- Hot, dry summers & Mild, Wet winters

rainfall-mainly occurs in fall and winter, summer drought-stricken

seasonality- Strong seasonality

Recognize and explain plant adaptations to the Mediterranean climate

Drought Resistance- Plants have deep roots to reach water allowing them to survive drought periods

Leaf Structure - small, thick, and waxy leaves reduce water lose ex) olive leaves and rosemary

Water saving strategies- waxy coating on cuticle, hairy leaves reduce evaporation, and some store water

Compare Mediterranean plants with other climates

Mediterranean- small and waxy leaves designed for water preservation, drought resistant, slow growth during dry season

Tropical plants-large and thin leaves, adapted to constant rain and humidity, fast growth

Desert plants- Extreme water storage (cactus), spines instead of leaves, specialized survival mechanisms

*Plants adapt to water availability and temperature

Importance of botanical gardens

-Protect plant biodiversity (many species are endangered), act as “living museums” of plants, help restore ecosystems, research how plants respond to climate change, and preserve seeds for future use

Role of botanical garden in Valencia

Education- works with university students and public and offers environmental education programs

Conservation- maintains collections of Mediterranean and endangered plants & participates in conservation networks

Research- studies plant adaptation, ecology, and climate impacts

Climate awareness- educates visitors about sustainability and climate change, demonstrates how plants respond to changing environments