This research demonstrates the positive effects of gardens on the well being of those grieving the loss of a loved one in the United States. This project creates a guideline for constructing an effective memorial garden using components such as motion, stillness, privacy, community, plant choice, and other design elements. The author also includes a recommended plant list for the Midwest United States and reading recommendations for garden design.
Abstract
The current infrastructure of horticulture in the United States of America, lacks BIPOC representation. The purpose of the review and research is to address the effects of white dominance in horticulture and combat the current system to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for BIPOC in horticulture. By juxtaposing past, present, and future contributions to horticulture from BIPOC individuals to the current concepts exhibited in horticulture we observe 3 things: The contributions of BIPOC ideas to Horticulture, the current representation of BIPOC individuals in horticulture, and the theorized future with solutions applied. This research is based on existing diversity equity and inclusion research seen in other fields, which theoretically will apply in the same context with horticulture. Under this assumption, it can be understood that horticulture is not the sole perpetrator in non-inclusive work environments for BIPOC but is rather a subcategory of the many organizations and communities within the United States that are systemically oppressive to BIPOC.
Keywords: [BIPOC, horticulture, diversity in horticulture, inclusion in horticulture, colonization, culture, anti-racism, equity, colonialism]
This research shows the environmental benefits of implementing floating garden designs in ponds and lakes as floating treatment wetlands (FTWs). Research conducted by Virginia Tech, Rutgers, Floating Island International, and the International Institute for Sustainable Development indicates successful remediation and removal of nutrient runoff from agricultural production, wastewater treatment, and human and animal waste. Plants with different rooting depths and surface areas can phytoaccumulate phosphorus and nitrogen compounds. Like wetlands, FTWs create an environment for microbial life around the rhizosphere of plants and the island substrate, generating colonies of bacteria called biofilm that digest nutrients from water or sediment. Natural wetland habitats, one of humanity's most efficient biofilters, have been destroyed around the United States to make room for farmland and cities. This research has been aggregated to fuel an FTW design on a small farm in Waynesville, Ohio, and other lakes and ponds for people that this research may inspire.
This research project investigates and improves the processes of native seed collection and native plant cultivation specific to the Ohio region. The overarching goal is advancing urban biodiversity initiatives, focused on flora indigenous to the Cincinnati area. The project delves into current research gaps and challenges associated with native seed collection and cultivation methodologies. Additionally, this research explores the potential ecological benefits and challenges associated with integrating native plant species into urban landscapes. This project researches 13 plant species in this context. The target outcomes of this research include a refined understanding of native plant adaptation to urban settings, improved conservation strategies, and actionable guidelines for urban planners and horticulturalists. This research contributes knowledge to the ongoing efforts of promoting biodiversity within urban landscapes, fostering a more sustainable coexistence between human developments and Ohio's native flora. The final result of this project is a field guide with sections on plant identification, seed harvesting, seed storage, cultivation needs, and common ecoregions for each plant.
The current infrastructure of horticulture in North America lacks BIPOC representation. The purpose of the review and the research is to address the effects of white dominance in horticulture and observe the benefits of a system that upholds and welcomes the culture and values of individuals in the BIPOC communities. By analyzing the current impacts of DEI and its effectiveness for BIPOC horticulturist, it can be theorized on how to create a more equitable field.
Permaculture follows design principles that combine critical thinking and permanent agriculture. This project explores how permaculture design can be implemented in a suburban middle class home to follow county regulations, produce food, and enhance shared family maintenance time.
