The Nursery
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The Nursery at Goldenacre is the starting point for thousands of plants destined for our four Gardens - Edinburgh, Benmore, Dawyck, and Logan.
Covering more than four hectares on a south‑facing slope, it plays a vital role in sustaining the Living Collection, even though it is not open to the public.
Goldenacre through time
Goldenacre earned its name from fertile soils and favourable growing conditions. The area once served as market gardens until the arrival of the trams in the 1800s, caused increased housing development in the area. Our nursery survived as a cut flower nursery until the late 1950s before being acquired by the Botanic Garden in the early 1960s.
What we do
The primary function is the production of plants grown outside in Edinburgh, Benmore and Dawyck and hardier material for Logan. But it also has many other functions, as outlined below.
Biosecurity
The Nursery operates the highest levels of biosecurity to prevent plant diseases entering and to ensure material leaving the Nursery is disease free. The Nursery is inspected by SASA on a regular basis.
Caring for the environment
The Nursery uses peat free composts derived from sustainable sources. Integrated pest management based largely on biological control helps to develop a bee friendly environment. High levels of reuse and recycling lead to minimal waste. Solar power mitigates electricity use.