Judy Kay Seedbank
at Montgomery Botanical CenterConservation Through Cultivation
It has been said that “the best way to keep a plant is to give it away.”
Widespread cultivation of imperiled plants helps ensure against their extinction. Making prized plant species abundantly available in the horticulture trade directly reduces pressure on the wild populations. This is a primary reason for Montgomery Botanical Center’s commitment to sharing its living collections.
Seeds produced from Montgomery’s living collections are routinely distributed to botanic gardens, research institutions, universities, schools, and plant societies worldwide. Pollen collections are also maintained in cryostorage through the Seedbank, and made available as needed. Montgomery Botanical Center’s Seedbank Program is supported by a large group of Volunteers. An article on the history of the Program was published in January 2000.
If your institution or society is interested in obtaining seeds from Montgomery’s Collections, please submit a letter indicating the contact person, name, and address of your institution; a brief purpose statement about your institution or society; and which species you are interested in. In some cases, we may require that your institution reimburse Montgomery Botanical Center for postage on the seeds. Mail your request letter to:
Daniel Tucker, Seedbank Coordinator
Montgomery Botanical Center
11901 Old Cutler Road
Coral Gables, FL 33156-4242
Judy Kay
Judy Kay (1946-2020) pioneered Montgomery’s Seedbank program in 2000, recruiting many patrons, clients, volunteers, and stakeholders for the program with her lively and engaging personality. Friends and family enjoyed listening to her many stories of her travels and adventures. She was always smiling and fun to be with. The Seedbank at Montgomery was her passion, and she built the Seedbank from a vision into a successful and robust program.
Judy generously made a bequest to Montgomery which supports the operation of our Seedbank, allowing us to scout for, collect, clean, and distribute palm and cycad seeds to gardens, schools, nurseries, and researchers. In March 2022, the Montgomery Botanical center officially named its seedbank in honor of Judy’s dedication, tireless efforts, amazing propagation skills, and generosity.
Seedbank Auctions
Montgomery is glad to work with the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association to supply seeds to the horticulture industry and others. Please visit www.botanicalauctions.com to see available seeds.