Current objectives of the Plant Collections Network are to:
Build Awareness – of both Plant Collections Network & value of documented plant collections
Promote Standards of Excellence – in plant collections management; and
Expand Diversity of Collections – target existing collections, identify gaps for future collections
The network is intended to represent woody and herbaceous ornamentals, both native and exotic. The main objective for each network member is to assemble a comprehensive group of plants for a particular
taxon, collecting plants from different populations throughout their natural range that are both
taxonomically and
genetically distinct.
Participating institutions maximize the potential value of their collections by making efficient use of available resources through a coordinated continent-wide approach, and strengthening their own collections through collaboration with others.
Criteria for participation in the Plant Collections Network are:
American Public Gardens Association membership
Active collections management program including plant records database, accession labels, maps
Long-term commitment to maintain collection
Endorsement of governing body
Current collection has 50% or more of ultimate collection scope
Collections policy
Curator for collection; and
Access to collection for research, evaluation and plant introduction
The accreditation process includes submitting a written application for each collection to be considered, then a peer site reviewer conducts an onsite assessment and submits a report with recommendations.[2]
As of March 2016, Network participants and Nationally Accredited Plant Collections included:[3]