A Survey of Bryophytes and their Management in the Ferns and Fossils House at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Abstract

This paper is derived from a research project produced during the author’s studies for a BSc in Horticulture with Plantsmanship at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). The body of work represents findings from a floristic survey of naturally occurring bryophytes in the Ferns and Fossils House at RBGE. This site merited close study due to the known presence of at least two southern hemisphere species along with many native species. Horticultural staff were interviewed about current bryophyte management within glasshouse displays. Recommendations are made for raising the status of bryophytes in botanic gardens and expanding the scope of living collections. This report includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, survey results, interview summary and conclusion.