In parallel with our ongoing Saguaro Census, Desert Botanical Garden researchers and volunteers have launched a bold new effort: creating a collective nursery to grow saguaro seedlings that might better survive Phoenix’s extreme desert conditions: the Saguaro Nursery. This nursery is more than just a scientific endeavor—it’s a long-term vision to restore and preserve these iconic giants across the Valley.
The nursery program is part of the Garden’s broader Saguaro Initiatives, which includes the Saguaro Census, that aims to study and preserve saguaro in the Valley by expanding its genetic diversity throughout the urban landscape. By growing saguaros from seed, volunteers will foster them in their homes. With the help of our community, the Garden is preparing for a future where these towering plants continue to thrive, even as the city around them grows hotter and drier.
In March, dedicated volunteers helped kick off a unique seed germination experiment. Researchers placed saguaro seeds, stored at different temperatures (room temperature, 4°C, -20°C, -80°C and even -196°C using cryogenic storage), into 50 petri dishes to test which conditions best preserve seeds for the long term. Under gentle care and weekly misting, the tiny green seedlings began to sprout, sending out delicate roots and slowly unfurling into the world.
By April, these baby saguaros were ready for the next step. Volunteers returned to help transplant the germinated seeds into grow trays, taking some home to raise themselves. Through workshops and hands-on learning, these community scientists are being trained to nurture the seedlings until they’re ready to be adopted back into the urban desert.
Together, this collective effort is helping ensure that saguaros remain a vital part of Phoenix’s ecosystem for generations to come.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Saguaro Initiatives, and don’t forget to participate in this year’s Saguaro Census, happening all month long!
If you are interested in participating in this wonderful initiative, contact lead scientist Dr. Tania Hernandez and Saguaro Nursery Volunteer Coordinator Crystal Zhou.
