biological control – University of Bristol Botanic Garden

The wondrous creatures that share our gardens part I: The creepy crawlies

Posted on Friday 30 September 2016Wednesday 6 November 2024 by andy.winfield

By Alida Robey

As I peacefully garden, random thoughts about the wildlife I encounter waft through my head. How far does a hedgehog travel in a night? If you throw a snail over the fence, is it likely to find its way back into the garden? How long do worms live? Rather than continue repeating this cycle of speculation, I decided to get to the bottom of these little mysteries. (more…)

Biological battles in the glasshouses

Posted on Wednesday 31 July 2013Wednesday 6 November 2024 by andy.winfield

By Helen Roberts and Nicola Temple

In the calm and serenity of the glasshouses, among the flowering lotus and breathtaking orchids, there is a lethal battle going on – biological warfare between predator and prey. About two months ago, Penny started to use biological control in the glasshouses as a chemical-free means of managing pests like whitefly and aphids. Parasitic wasps and beetles are released in areas of infestation and left to do what comes naturally to them…prey upon pests. (more…)

Winter Entry prices (from 4th of November)

Adults - £5 (or £5.50 with Gift Aid) , except on WEDNESDAY, our DAISY day
University of Bristol staff (including retired staff) - £3 (or £3.30 with Gift Aid)
Members of the Friends of the Garden - Free
Students - Free
University of Bristol alumni - Free
Essential carer of disabled visitor - Free
Dogs are not permitted in the Botanic Garden, with the exception of assistance dogs.

Main Garden open 10am - 4:00pm, Monday - Friday (The Garden is now closed at weekends until Spring 2025)

Glasshouses open 10:30am - 3:30pm, Monday - Friday (The Garden is now closed at weekends until Spring 2025)

Refreshments are now closed for the winter. They will reopen in the spring. Flasks and picnics are welcome.

Winter Closure Dates 2025:

Our last open weekend is the 9th and 10th of November. From the 11th of November until March 2025 we are open on weekdays only.

The Garden closes over Christmas and New Year from the 21st of December until the 2nd of January, reopening on Friday the 3rd of January (weekdays only).