Power of Plants Contest

It’s no secret—at the Missouri Botanical Garden we think plants are AMAZING! They are real-life superheroes that help us every day. Plants are the basis of life as we know it. Here are just a few great things plants provide for people:

• Oxygen in the air we breathe
• Food
• Medicines
• Materials for buildings and clothes
• Fuel for cars
• Pollution protection for rivers, lakes, and oceans
• Nutrients for soil
• Shade
• Enjoyment, pleasure, and beauty

The Missouri Botanical Garden would like your help to identify the amazing Power of Plants. Pick a plant. Learn about the plant’s qualities and characteristics. Learn about how the plant helps people. Find a way to tell everyone about why your plant deserves our thanks. If your entry is chosen by our panel of judges, you could win $1,000!!

Here’s an example of a Powerful Plant:

Last year, middle school student Lauren Epley won $1000 for her contest entry about the vanilla plant. Lauren created a three-dimensional model that included a lot of facts about vanilla’s unique characteristics.

Lauren’s entry inspired a new plant superhero: Van "The Cool Bean." Van is a smooth-talking snowboarder who fills the neighborhood with good smells and puts everybody in a good mood. Meet Van!

Click on photo to see larger image.

Like Lauren, you can find a creative way to teach others about the plant of your choice. Read the information about Submitting your Entry, complete an Entry Form, and get to work!!

Do you have a question?

Please send questions to powerofplants@mobot.org. Answers to questions of general interest will be posted on the list of Frequently Asked Questions. Please allow 5 business days for the MBG staff to reply.

2009–2010 Power of Plants Contest sponsored by: