Plants that have broken records
We love gardening in the UK. Did you know there are more than 3 million plant species in the world? While we may not have as many plants in the average British garden, there are still a wide variety of trees and flowers, both native and exotic. Do you know about the world records for flowers, plants and gardens? These are some interesting records in the world of horticulture.
The Oldest Germinated Seed
Previously, The oldest seed in the world was discovered on a date palm during an archeological dig near the Dead Sea at King Herod’s Palace. It was discovered in 2005 and given the name ‘Methuselah,’ because of its age. Carbon dating confirmed that it was around 2,000 years! This has now been surpassed by a seed found in Siberia dating back 32,000 years!
Biggest Plant
In 1992, the largest organism ever recorded was a network made up of aspen trees located in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. A single root system of the trees covered an area of more than 106 acres.
The Earliest Tree Known
Ginkgo biloba trees in Zhejiang province, China are the species with the longest survival rate. It was first found on Earth around 160 million years back during the Jurassic Period.
The largest flower garden in the world
The Dubai Miracle Garden, which covers an area of 72,000sqm, is the largest flower garden in the world. The garden is surrounded by a wall decorated with flowers. One of the walls, with a 1km circumference, is trying to set a Guinness World Record. You might not have the same size garden, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a beautiful green space. For Plants for Trade, visit Palmstead plants for trade
Longest Carrot
This monster carrot was more than 20 feet long! The world record for a carrot was achieved in 2016, by farmer Joe Atherton.
The Tiniest Orchid
A scientist from the United States found a tiny orchid measuring 2.1mm in diameter. It was perfectly formed and had a perfect shape. It was cream-coloured and perfectly formed, just like a miniature.
Biggest Vertical Garden
This is located in Singapore, and covers a total area of over 2,000 sqm in a 24-storey condo in Bukit Timah. The building has impressive green credentials (please excuse pun). The company expects to save more than half a million in energy and water.
Tallest Rose Bush
A man in New Jersey, USA has grown a rose bush which is 18 feet 6 inches tall. This is the world record for the tallest self-supporting flower bush.