Garden Center Visit – UF Horticultural Sciences Ornamental Greenhouse Garden Center

 Date of Visit: April 2025

Location: University of Florida – Horticultural Sciences Greenhouse Complex

This week, I had the opportunity to visit the Ornamental Greenhouse Garden Center at UF’s Horticultural Sciences Department. The entire experience was visually stunning and incredibly informative it gave me a new appreciation for how much design, science, and structure go into maintaining ornamental plants for aesthetic and educational purposes. The facility was focused ornamental and decorative foliage, with Production of Poinsettias, sadly we did not get to see any as the production was not in season.

Greenhouse Structures & Glazing Types

One of the first things we learned was the difference between glass and polyethylene (poly) glazing used in greenhouse construction. This was especially important in ornamental greenhouses, where light quality and aesthetics are key to maintaining vibrant, colorful plants.

Glass glazing offered the clearest light transmission, but requires shading nets to prevent burning of plants.

Polyethylene film (poly) provided diffused light, which helps reduce plant stress and sunburn while still supporting healthy growth.

Each structure had its own purpose depending on the needs of the plants inside, and I gained insight into how greenhouse design directly impacts the appearance and quality of ornamental plants.

Environmental Controls

The greenhouse featured automated climate controls, including cooling pads, exhaust fans, and misting systems to maintain ideal humidity and temperature for delicate ornamental species. This careful attention to environmental detail ensures that plants stay healthy, disease-free, and visually striking.