A longtime proponent of unusual and fun plants, Bruce had his own design/build garden design business for nearly 25 years that specialized in plantings for year-round interest. One of those gardens was published in Fine Gardening Magazine! Today, Bruce is the Director of Rutgers Gardens, the botanical garden for Rutgers University, and is an adjunct professor in Landscape Architecture at Rutgers University. His position as Director of Rutgers Gardens involves the management of the 180-acre facility, which includes designed gardens, woodlands, open fields and a new green roof featuring mostly native plants that was planted in 2018. Open 365 days a year and with well over 30,000 visitors a year, the emphasis is now focused on redeveloping the Gardens such that it tells the story of plants over the past 450 million years and allowing the visitors to see these plants featured in seasonally attractive designs. Bruce also lectures frequently to various groups and at continuing education programs.
Bruce Crawford, Director, Rutgers Gardens
DESCRIPTION: There has been a tremendous resurgence for native plants. Yes, these plants provide both attractive floral and foliar additions to the Garden, but the interest extends far beyond beauty. The also provide food through pollen, nectar or foliage that will support our native insect population and all the animals that feed upon these insects. Bruce will highlight numerous beauties that will enhance your garden throughout the year while sustaining our natural environment!
