The 'Squishy' volunteers of the Australian National Botanic Gardens greenhouse
Greenhouse 'Squishy' volunteers play a key role in protecting the Australian National Botanic Gardens’ greenhouse tropical plant collection from pests.
'Squishys' monitor and control pests such as scale, aphids, fungus gnats, mealybugs, thrips and mites, using physical controls such as brushing, sticky traps and squishing!
Benefits of the program include:
- Early Pest Detection: Volunteers play a crucial role in identifying and managing pest outbreaks before they escalate. Their regular presence allows for timely intervention.
- Targeted Efforts: Volunteers can focus on hotspot areas or distribute their efforts across different greenhouses. This targeted approach helps maintain pest control efficiently.
- Staff Productivity: By handling pest management tasks, volunteers free up horticultural staff to work on other essential activities.
- Passionate Team: Having a dedicated team of volunteers who share a passion for horticulture and insects creates a positive and collaborative environment.
- Exclusive Access: Volunteers also benefit from behind-the-scenes access to facilities not open to the general public, fostering their enthusiasm for the work.
The Squishy volunteer program first started in October 2022 and almost two years later, volunteers have provided 842 hours of manual pest removal.
There are 15 Squishy volunteers. On average, five volunteers complete a two-hour session each week in the Greenhouse. At the end of each session, volunteers meet for morning tea which provides an opportunity to build valuable social connections. Garden staff also offer informal learning such as placing bugs under the microscope and discussing lookalike species.
The Gardens are grateful for the continuing contribution of these volunteers and their impact in our ability to maintain the health of the tropical living collection. If you would like to become a Squishy volunteer contact volunteers@anbg.gov.au.
