Harry C. Minor Genetic Diversity Garden

This area will illustrate the genetic diversity that occurs within a crop species and the role of plant breeding. We will plant multiple varieties of several crops, demonstrating the natural variance that occurs within the same plant species. For example, we will plant about 20 different varieties (types) of corn, sunflowers and other selected crops to show the wide range of diversity that occurs and can be utilized by plant breeders in developing improved crops.

The Crop Diversity Garden is named after Dr. Harry C. Minor, whose family made a memorial gift in recognition of his long career of work in the improvement of crops.  Dr. Minor was a university researcher and extension educator who tested and evaluated many genetically diverse varieties of crops, providing valuable information to farmers 
about the best kinds of crops to grow and the top performing varieties to use.  He spent his professional career as faculty member at the University of Illinois and the University of Missouri, as well as working with U.S. AID, the U.N. and international agricultural 
organizations to improve agricultural practices in the U.S., South  America, Africa and Asia.

Fruit and vine crops

We plan to establish a small demonstration area for fruit crops and vine crops, including examples of orchard trees. The focus will primarily be on those fruit and vine crops that have good growing potential for this region. This includes: apples, pears, cherries, peaches, nectarines, grapes, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries.

Native Areas

Four main locations around the farm will be dedicated to plantings of plants native to Missouri. These areas will include:

Prairie grass area – Our native prairie grasses have a number of uses, including pasture for animals. This area will feature a number of Missouri’s grasses native to the prairie. You will be impressed by the beauty of the grasses as they turn color in the fall.

Wildflower meadow – This area will showcase Missouri’s native wildflowers on a one-half acre plot. As visitors traipse through the meadow on a winding path, they will notice the wildflowers make up a wide palette of colors.

Native tree grove – We are expanding an existing grove of mature oaks, walnuts and hickories to include representatives of every tree species native to Missouri. All trees will be labeled for identification.

Wetland – We are planning to construct a small demonstration wetland that will illustrate the role of wetland plants in filtering nutrient runoff from fields and pastures.

Ornamental Gardens

Our ornamental gardens will inspire and inform you as you plan your home’s landscaping. These gardens will celebrate plant diversity by mixing and matching plants, typically in naturalized groupings. They will also be a great place to sit and reflect.