Birdhouse.Farm Research Gardens

What is a research garden?

A research garden is a designated area or plot of land specifically used for conducting scientific studies and experiments related to plants, horticulture, agriculture, or other botanical research. It provides a controlled environment where researchers can investigate various aspects of plant biology, genetics, ecology, or other related disciplines.

Birdhouse.farm has several official research gardens on site and off-site (CO, IL, KS, and MI), as well as, many unofficial research gardens managed by our Bh.f Citizen Scientists and Lil’ Citizen Scientists.


Birdhouse Suburban Wetlands


A Living Laboratory

The Birdhouse.farm Suburban Wetlands is a restored ecosystem with pools and low areas that capture water to support native plants and wildlife. The wetlands bull rushes, cattails, and other vegetation, naturally filter water and provide habitat for various species.

This wetland also serves as an educational space, highlighting the benefits of wetlands and a living laboratory for Birdhouse.farm’s ecological and agricultural research.

Birdhouse Agroforestry Trials


Exploring Modern Food Forestry

The Birdhouse.farm Agroforestry Trials are a series of forest zones testing diverse plant combinations to create a year-round, productive ecosystem. Each zone features different tree, shrub, and plant species, aiming to boost biodiversity, provide resources, and support local wildlife. A control zone with naturally seeded plants helps compare results, while regular monitoring assesses plant growth, wildlife response, and yields.

These trials explore sustainable, intensive forest systems that could benefit both nature and the community.

Birdhouse Floating Islands


Building Up Bioremediation, and Biodiversity

The Birdhouse.farm Floating Islands Initiative creates small, plant-covered floating platforms that enhance water quality and provide habitat in ponds and wetlands. These islands are planted with native vegetation that helps filter pollutants, support fish and other aquatic life, and attract beneficial insects.

Serving as natural, floating ecosystems, our islands improve biodiversity and demonstrate innovative ways to balance water cleanup and wildlife habitat.

Birdhouse Grow-House


Our Indoor Agricultural Lab

The Birdhouse.farm Indoor Grow Room uses advanced lighting and basic temperature control to grow plants, fungi, and starter crops year-round. This space supports diverse cultivation, allowing for fresh food production, testing of new plant varieties, and experimentation with sustainable indoor growing techniques to complement outdoor projects.

Bh.f Garden Blog

More Links: