School of Horticulture: Facilities
GARDENS
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture is located on the Niagara Parkway, 8 km (13 miles) north of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The beautifully landscaped Botanical Gardens cover approximately 34 hectares (83 acres). The major areas include an arboretum, mature tree collection, shrub and perennial collections, water features, vegetable and herb gardens, dwarf conifer collection, Victorian rose garden, and greenhouse and nursery production areas. Also found throughout the Botanical Gardens are attractive seasonal floral displays and specimen tree plantings.
RESIDENCE
The Commission provides room and board free of charge as a taxable benefit for first and second year students at the student residence on the grounds of the Botanical Gardens. Third year students are required to obtain off-campus accommodation at their own expense.
GREENHOUSES & BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY
Most plants used in the Gardens’ seasonal bedding designs are propagated by students at the Botanical Gardens greenhouses. Students also study at the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse. Laboratory facilities are used for tissue culture, soil testing and entomology labs.
ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDINGS
Academic classrooms and offices are located in the administrative buildings. The Library features an automated catalog, electronic resources, and historical and current reference materials including books, periodicals, and videos.
OTHER FACILITIES
The Herbarium features plant specimens collected by first year students. Each specimen is pressed, dried and mounted on suitable cards that are grouped in their respective families. The collection permits students to become acquainted with plant species of cultivated and wild origins.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING
There is no public transit to the School. Students are responsible for their own transportation for school related activities. Free parking is provided.