MANHATTAN — In 2025, the Kansas State University Gardens, will celebrate a milestone: 150 years. According to KSU the university will commemorate the anniversary with a yearlong celebration honoring the legacy of horticultural excellence. There will be opportunities to celebrate the gardens throughout 2025 with a variety of events across campus and the Manhattan community.
"Celebrating 150 years is a testament to the K-State Gardens' inspiring effect on those who visit," said Scott McElwain, director of the gardens. "The anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect, to look forward to our promising future and to thank those who have helped nurture the gardens throughout the years. We can't wait to celebrate with the K-State family next year.
"The festivities will begin with the 150th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, in the K-State Alumni Center. There will be a luncheon and journey through the past of the Gardens with Chuck Marr, emeritus professor of horticulture at K-State. Then dive deeper into the world of ornamental horticulture with a talk by renowned horticulturist Karl Gercens III from Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square, Pennsylvania.