Georgia Southern’s Garden of the Coastal Plain Named to Top 50 List

July 14, 2015

The Garden of the Coastal Plain at Georgia Southern University has been named to a list of the 50 most amazing university botanical gardens and arboretums in the U.S. by BestOnlineColleges.org.

The Garden at Georgia Southern boasts over 11 acres of gardens on the early 20th century farmstead of Dan and Catherine Bland. Woodland trails, a landscape garden of coastal plain natives, an arboretum, a children’s garden, 20th century farm buildings, the Rural Life Museum and a native azalea collection are just a few of the attractions the garden has to offer.

“It is an honor to be included with some of the world leaders in botanical research and conservation,” said Carolyn Altman, director of the Garden. “Since its inception, the Garden has developed unique and important collections featuring plants native to the coastal plain and engaged the University and beyond in discovering the fascinating life this area produces. We’re about to be adding significantly to the Garden, and encourage visitors from all over to stop in often and explore the wonders of the coastal plain and its culture.”

The list was created using a point system for various accolades including awards, variety of plant species, conservation and education, connected University degree programs and “wow factor.”

Conservation efforts in cultivating over 20 of Georgia’s protected plants and 17 endangered species and the offering of internships, service learning projects and research projects are just a few of the things that stood out about the Garden of the Coastal Plain when being considered for the list.

Other universities mentioned on the list include Louisiana State University, University of Delaware, University of Kentucky and the University of Michigan among others.

Georgia Southern University, a public Carnegie Doctoral/Research University founded in 1906, offers more than 125-degree programs serving more than 20,500 students. Through eight colleges, the University offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs built on more than a century of academic achievement. Georgia Southern is recognized for its student-centered and hands-on approach to education. Visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu