Longwood Gardens
Karl Gercens has extensive experience in horticulture, currently serving as the Conservatory Manager at Longwood Gardens since July 1998. In this role, Gercens is responsible for the design and maintenance of conservatory displays within a 4-acre glasshouse complex. Prior to this, Gercens worked as a Garden Apprentice at Filoli Estate from February to December 1996, focusing on historic garden maintenance. Earlier experience includes an internship at The Walt Disney Company from January to September 1995, assisting with scientific displays related to hydroponics in collaboration with NASA. Gercens holds a Bachelor's degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Mississippi State University, earned in 1998, and is an alumnus of Longwood Gardens from 1996.
Longwood Gardens
In 1906, industrialist Pierre du Pont (1870-1954) purchased a small farm near Kennett Square, PA, to save a collection of historic trees from being sold for lumber. Throughout his life, Mr. du Pont indulged his passion for gardening, turning his farm into a magnificent horticultural showplace. Today, Longwood Gardens is one of the great gardens of the world, encompassing 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains, a 10,010-pipe Aeolian organ and a 4-acre grand Conservatory. Longwood continues the mission set forth by Mr. du Pont to bring joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Longwood Gardens offers a breadth of mission programming that includes exhibitions, musical performances by top artists, renowned horticulture education programs, horticulture research, environmental stewardship and cultural and community engagement.