Preparing Kew Gardens' iconic Palm House for a net-zero future

Restoring the Palm House at Kew Gardens: Part one - Decanting the plants · 6:00 · Video: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew · Watch at the source

In short: Before the Palm House and Waterlily House undergo a major transformation into net-zero heritage glasshouses, horticulturists must relocate over 1000 plant species. This video documents the complex process of decanting these tropical collections to ensure their survival during the upcoming renovation.

The restoration project, scheduled to commence in 2027, aims to modernize these historic structures while maintaining their heritage status. To prepare, experts are employing techniques such as re-potting and air-layering to propagate and move specimens into two newly constructed glasshouses—one permanent and one temporary—designed specifically for tropical cultivation.

This massive logistical undertaking is essential to preserve the diverse botanical collection housed within Kew's glasshouses. By starting the decanting process early, the team ensures that the delicate tropical plants remain healthy and stable well before the primary construction work begins.

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