International Women in Science Day 

Did you know our city had a Horticulturist?

Meet our City Horticulturist

Lana Baysinger 

"When I am asked about my interest in this field, I say it is genetic. What I mean by that is my parents were both avid gardeners. My Mother still is. I learned my knowledge and abilities from them. I absolutely love plants and the way they dress up the world. Landscapes define structures and add great aesthetics. Horticulture contributes to the quality of life and the rehabilitation of our environment. I have two degrees in communication and believe that landscapes communicate. They communicate internally and externally "

What does your day look like? 

My day-to-day job changes by the season. In the spring, I am busy starting plants and seeds, getting the new plants and shrubs in and studying the landscapes in the city to see what I can improve. In the summer, I spend most of my time landscaping, gardening, watering and maintaining the landscapes. In the fall, I trim and deadhead, pick up free trees and plant fall seeds. The winter, my least favorite season, I work in the greenhouse, studying and researching new plants and information. I attend tree and plant meetings. In May, the city puts on Tree City for Ozark School classes.  

What is Horticulture? 

Passion - Horticulture is a multi-disciplinary field that encompasses a wide range of plant-related activities, including the production of food and ornamental crops, landscape design, and the study of plant biology and ecology. Horticulturists may specialize in areas such as vegetable production, fruit tree management, or floriculture, among others.

History - The cultivation of plants for food, medicine, and aesthetic purposes has been a part of human history for thousands of years. Evidence of horticultural practices can be found in ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who cultivated crops and developed advanced irrigation systems.

Sustainability - Horticulture plays an important role in promoting sustainability by producing food and ornamental crops in a way that minimizes environmental impact and conserves natural resources. Horticulturists use techniques such as integrated pest management, conservation tillage, and cover cropping to promote healthy soil and reduce the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers.