Demonstration Gardens

Besides the children's garden, there will be additional demonstration gardens at the Jefferson Farm with small plots of many different plant varieties or species.

1) Economic plants garden. This garden will be modeled after a test garden at Monticello where Thomas Jefferson grew many types of vegetables, and even grains, that he was testing. In our garden, we will have up to 100 species of different horticultural and field crops demonstrated, with two or more rows of each plant species and signs providing information about each crop. We also have plans for a replica of the garden pavilion which Jefferson designed as a space for contemplation next to his garden.

2) Genetic diversity garden. To illustrate the genetic diversity that occurs within a crop species, and the role of plant breeding, we will plant diverse varieties of a few different crops in this garden area. For example, we will plant 10 to 20 varieties (types) of corn, sunflowers, and one or two other crops to show the wide range of diversity that occurs and can be utilized by plant breeders in developing improved crops.

3) 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 which are common or have good potential for this region.

Thomas Jefferson Agricultural Institute
601 West Nifong Blvd. Suite 1D
Columbia, MO 65203
573-449-3518
info@jeffersoninstitute.org