Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources
Nestled in the heart of West Texas, the newly designated Texas Tech Botanical Gardens represent a bold new chapter in research, teaching, and community engagement for Davis College. More than just a garden, this space is a living, breathing classroom—where innovation meets inspiration.
Offer a space where families, school groups, and community members can learn about native plants, pollinators, sustainable gardening, and the value of natural ecosystems.
Create a one-of-a-kind learning environment that prepares students to be industry-ready landscape architects, scientists, and environmental leaders.
Support faculty-led studies in plant resilience, greenhouse technologies, climate adaptation, and water-wise landscaping.
From community celebrations to university gatherings, the Botanical Gardens provide a stunning and flexible venue unlike any other on campus.
Areas on campus, such as the horticulture gardens and greenhouse, are also due for an upgrade. Vikram Baliga, Ph.D., assistant professor of practice and associate dean for outreach and engagement at Davis College, said the horticulture gardens and greenhouse host multiple school groups and tours every year.
“[The greenhouse] is the front door for our college in a lot of ways,” Baliga said.
According to Baliga, the horticulture gardens and greenhouse welcomes over 1,400 students each year, making added space a necessity.
“The biggest goals we have, and the biggest sort of benchmarks we’re working toward, is modernization inside, trying to make sure that as our students come through the program seeing and doing the same things they’ll encounter in the industry.”
Originally built in 1970 and then moved to its current roots in the 80s, the greenhouse currently stands a little rugged, though charming, on the inside.
“If you look close enough, there are still original parts on [the greenhouse],” Baliga said. “I always think of [the greenhouse] as an old Cadillac. It was top of the line at the time, but now one of the side view mirrors has fallen off and it needs a coat of paint.”
While the wear and tear show the years of hard work, the greenhouse still holds an important place on campus. For Baliga, the worn edges are a reminder that modernizing the space is not just about the looks; it is about representing the college’s values.
“We’re trying to improve our face, as we’re trying to improve our impact and our presence, Baliga said. “It’s an easy spot to have a huge impact on the way Davis College is perceived and represented in Lubbock.”
Although the renovations are much needed, they depend on support from donors.
“Every bit helps,” Baliga said. “It’s not just one person doing the job. Everyone’s contribution and gift is a big deal, and we treat it as such. We see how much that means to us and how much it means to people to be able to help support the university.”
Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources