UT Gardens, Crossville Map Tour

Home Greenhouse

This demonstration was built in 2015 to show options to homeowners considering a greenhouse purchase. The type of greenhouse you select depends on the growing space needed, the available site, and the cost.

Herb Garden and Human Sundial

Included here are four classifications of herbs: culinary, sensory, tea, and medicinal. Follow the pavers to the center facing forward (north) and raise your arm out even with your shoulder. Your shadow will fall indicating the time of day. (Class of 2014)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Turf Plot

The Cumberland Plateau is considered a transition zone for turf. It is cold enough in the winter to challenge warm season varieties and warm enough in the summer to challenge cool season varieties. Six common turfs are planted here. (Class of 2009, renovated 2018)

For a complete list of the grasses in this plot, click  here. 

Weather Station

In cooperation with the National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), weather measurements continue to be read and recorded daily, documenting air temperature, evaporation, wind movement, and precipitation.

(Recording since 1943)

KinderGarden

This interactive space was designed for children aged 3-7 to enhance curiosity in the garden. In 2018 it was certified as a Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom; that year's intern, Brianah, also introduced an augmented learning component. (2015)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Home on the Plateau

The home structure here delineates a formal style in the front and an informal or more relaxing backyard. There is also a rain barrel to sustainably source water. (Class of 2011)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Raised Bed Demonstration

Soils on the plateau tend to be shallow, have a low pH, and drain quickly., This is why raised beds such as these are beneficial. They are also a more ergonomic option for people with physical limitations. (Class of 2010)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Mixed Screen Plantings

Multiple plant species provide diversity and safeguard against potential insect and disease problems. This display is trying to accomplish just that. (2022)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Composting

This display is cost effective and good for the garden. Handouts are available in the main office.

(2012)

Redbud Research Trial

Redbuds are an early blooming tree with pink pea-like flowers and heart shaped leaves. There are several varieties throughout the garden. Since redbuds are a native species to Tennessee, they were used as a control group for more southern states where disease is more prominent. (2009-2015)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here .

Ornamental Grasses Trial

Whether annual or perennial, these ornamental grasses provide four seasons of interest based on size, shape, and seasonal color change. This trial tests which varities are most rust resistant.

(2009-2015)

Dragonfly Habitat

This garden teaches the environmental importance of dragonflies and their habitat. It provides an example of what you can do in your own landscape to attract this fascinating insect that eats hundreds of mosquitos.

(Designed by Master Gardener, Vicki May, and Class of 2024)

Tiered Display

This demonstration was built to show creative use of containers for gardening with tiered feed troughs and recycled glass that you can purchase at your recycling center. (2014)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Daylily Bed and Trial

There is a small plot of daylilies and a large curve around the outdoor classroom with 450 varieties planted 5 times creating a total of 2250 plants. These easy to grow perennials are a must see when in bloom. (Daylily bed 2014, trial 2018)

The daylilies are still being identified and inventoried. A complete list of all varieties will be available in the future.

The Andy-Taylor Shade Garden

As showcased by our 2015 interns (Andy and Taylor), shade tolerant plants are available and survive beautifully as demonstrated here beneath the tree line.

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Tree and Shrub Garden

Whether for privacy, ornamental impact, edible benefit, or seasonal interest, trees and shrubs become the foundation of a landscape. (Class of 2005)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Bulb Garden

Commonly referred to as bulbs these plants offer different types of underground storage structures that include corms, tubers, tuberous roots, tuberous stems, and rhizomes. This site has been dispersed with annuals, perennials, and a few shrubs. (Class of 2008)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Foodscaping

Foodscaping is integrating edible plants in with ornamental plants. 2019 summer intern Susanna added edible plants here that can add color, texture, fragrance, and food for all meals right in your backyard.

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Tennessee Smart Yard

The plants in this plot are all on the Tennessee Smart Yards native plants list. A 'smart yard' is in tune with the local environment for the benefit of both people and our ecosystem. For information about this program, click  here. 

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Butterfly Garden

Butterflies require two types of plants: a host plant for the growth cycle and a nectar plant for nourishment. Large, flat stones are needed for warmth and shelter must be provided from breezes, and puddles must be provided for water. This plot is even recognized as a Monarch Waystation by Monarch Watch. (Initiated 2012, enhanced 2016)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Hardy Hibiscus Trial

Plants derived from crosses made by Dr. Andy Pulte at the UT Gardens, Knoxville. Evaluations include ability to produce large amounts of blooms over long periods of time. The best of these hibiscus will continue on for further evaluations.

(2022)

Rose Garden

The University of Tennessee has been instrumental to the rose industry by conducting rose trials over recent years and continues by researching Rose Rosette disease, also known as "Witches Broom of the Rose". This disease is caused by a virus spread by a very small mite. This plot was planted in 2009 to show some of the plants resistant to the disease.

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Hydrangea Research Trial

This study included sixty-nine varieties in the original trial. They were used to assess resistance to foliar diseases such as black spot. One question that arose from the initial study was, "Why don't these hydrangeas bloom as profusely as in other areas of the state and country?

(2009-2017)

Moss Display

Turf grasses often struggle to survive in shade, especially during hot and humid summer months. Mosses may be an excellent alternative. The shade tolerant mosses in this demonstration may vary in color, form, height, and growth rates.

For a complete list of mosses in this plot, click  here. 

Water Feature

This water feature offers a melodious tune with a natural ability to attract birds and butterflies. It is also a display of groundcovers. (First commercial sponsor)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Mary's Trial

Affectionately named after our first garden intern, this plot is a hardiness research trial for the Southern Living Plant Collection. It also symbolizes the unique opportunities available within a college internship by the CCMGI and Plateau Research and Education Center. For more information visit  ccmga.org  or  plateau.tennessee.edu 

(Planted 2012, updated 2014)

Sun Perennial Garden

These plants are called perennials because they can live more than two years. The varieties presented here require full sun. (Class of 2006)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Celebration of Life-Conifers

This site was identified in 2017 as a reference garden by the American Conifer Society. In this bed, you will find commonly planted conifers. ACS reference card with plant location is available in the information birdhouse. (Planted 2008, expanded 2016)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here. 

Four Season Sensory Garden

As demonstrated here, selecting a variety of plants based upon their peak season of interest will elicit the senses year round. (Class of 2015)

For a complete list of plants in this plot, click  here .