Emily Detrick
The Elizabeth Weaver Director of Horticulture, Cornell Botanic Gardens
PRESENTING
Nature-based practices and interpretation at Cornell Botanic Gardens
Botanic Gardens are resources for home gardeners, landscapers, and others in the green industry to see and learn about horticultural best practices. At the same time, a somewhat dated aesthetic often dictates what a public garden "should" look like -- which can be in conflict with natural systems. Recent initiatives, projects, and changes in practice at Cornell Botanic Gardens are not only creating a more sustainable landscape, but also helping inform public perception and awareness about best home garden practices to sustain both beauty and wildlife.
About Emily
Emily recently stepped into the role of Director of Horticulture at Cornell Botanic Gardens, where she has been a horticulturist for the last three years. She also teaches the Cornell course The Art of Horticulture, which focuses on plants as the medium and subject for artmaking. Emily completed her master’s degree in Horticulture from Cornell University with a focus on public garden leadership and curatorial practices for historic botanic gardens. She has worked in the green industry for over 10 years, including as the Alpine Horticulturist at Stonecrop Gardens in Cold Spring, NY and as Farm Manager for a 1,300 member organic CSA in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her background is in fine art, and she has coordinated programs for a variety of cultural institutions including the Speed Art Museum in Louisville, KY, and the Scottsdale Public Art Program in Scottsdale, AZ.