Discovery Zone
Learn about the power of plants and developments in gardening science and technology
Visitors to the 2017 show found out about the power of plants, information was available about their cancer-busting properties and how plants can improve psychological health and the environment.
The Zone featured a range of interactive displays demonstrating the significance of science and research behind plants and the impact they have on society.
Delight in the Dark
Unearthing the wonderfully weird underworld of plants, the British Ecological Society invited guests to explore the amazing nature behind varieties that flourish in the dark. The exhibit investigated plants that thrive in gloomy conditions and the adaptations that enable them to create wonder without light.
At Home with Plants
Indoor Garden Design’s display looked at the benefits indoor plants have on the psychological, emotional and general health of the occupants. Visitors discovered the benefits of various plant types and found out how plants create a micro climate to clean everyday pollutants from the air.
Plant. Grow. Survive.
Inspired by the experiences of refugees across the world, AutoPot Global’s greenhouse structure demonstrated how sustainable growing technology can be used where natural resources are limited. The mock ‘refugee camp’ looked at erecting greenhouses within, or nearby, camps to help those living in them to ‘grow their own’ food, and emphasising that, despite the bleak environment, plants signify hope and survival
Come to Your Senses
Based on the discovery that green spaces may help improve children’s mental health by encouraging them to go outside, Miracle-Gro’s eco-therapy garden offered an escape from the pressures of modern life. Focusing on the five senses, it aimed to challenge the sedentary nature of children’s lives in the UK, with a natural environment to reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.
Mighty greens
Sparsholt College looked at the range of benefits of edible plants used in salads, from the development of watercress as a street snack to its use in cutting-edge cancer prevention research.
Other highlights
Green isn’t always good: The Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International’s (CABI) exhibit explored natural solutions to the growing problem of invasive plants and their impact on our ecosystems and infrastructure.
Kew: This exhbit put the spotlight on new exciting plant discoveries and their importance.
STEM all around us: The Animal and Plant Health Agency demonstrated how Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) are being used by government, businesses and individuals to protect the country from threats to tree and plant health.
