| A survey of the uncultivated vascular plants of the 915 acres of Powell Botanical Gardens was conducted from 26 May 2004 to 5 September 2007. A total of 269 species, representing 66 families were collected and identified. The most species-rich family was Poaceae (38 spp.). The genus with the greatest number of species was Carex (9 genera). Native species represented 74% of the flora while 26% were introduced. Plant communities of the property were defined qualitatively and the composition of the native and restored prairie communities were quantitatively examined. Quantitative measures were taken in Fall 2007 and Spring 2008 using eight, 20 meter transects. Five, one square meter quadrats were randomly placed adjacent to each transect. Plant species were identified and characterized with various ecological indices including utilizing PC/ORD. Diversity differed by season with spring native more diverse than fall native and fall restored more diverse than spring restored. |
