Nestled between the Hospital Rock and John Muir buildings on the College of the Sequoias – Visalia Campus, a serene botanical garden and greenhouse stand as a testament to the dedication and vision of Professor Brad Goodbar, a Plant Biology professor at COS. Over the years, Goodbar has developed this green space from the ground up, transforming it into a vibrant hub of learning and tranquility.
The journey of the COS Botanical Garden began with a simple yet profound idea: to create a space where students could connect with nature and learn about plant biology in a hands-on environment. Initially, the garden was a blank canvas, devoid of the benches that now dot its landscape. Goodbar recalls a pivotal moment when he gave the college president a tour of the garden. “He admired the garden and asked if there was anything he could do to help,” Goodbar said. “Noticing students sitting on rocks, I suggested adding benches, and so we did.” This small but significant change marked the beginning of the garden’s transformation into a welcoming space for students to study, eat, and relax.
Goodbar also cultivates a variety of plants in the greenhouse, including insect-killing plants, succulents, and moss. Students learn to identify plant names and classifications, using these plants, in Goodbar’s Plant Biology class. As you walk from the John Muir parking lot to the building, you’ll notice various plants with small white signs. These signs, placed by Goodbar, provide valuable information about the plant species, their origins, environmental impact, and uses, such as medicine or food. Not only does it educate students, but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Despite the beauty, Goodbar faces challenges, particularly in balancing the needs of different plants. Some require daily watering, while others need less frequent attention. Additionally, different plants thrive in varying climates, making it difficult to maintain the greenhouse’s climate. Nevertheless, nearly all the plants in the greenhouse are thriving.
Looking ahead, Goodbar plans to clean up the garden and add more plants to the greenhouse and around the John Muir building. If you’re interested in getting involved with the campus garden and learning about plant care, consider taking Plant Biology next fall with Professor Brad Goodbar. By doing so, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge but also contribute to the ongoing growth and evolution of this beautiful campus. Be sure to visit the garden often to witness its transformation and to appreciate the hard work and passion that have gone into creating this unique learning environment. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or visitor, the garden offers a peaceful retreat and a wealth of knowledge waiting to be discovered.
Students learn to identify plant names and classifications, using these plants, in Goodbar’s Plant Biology class.
