Discovering the garden: old varieties, current issues

New permanent exhibition since 14 October

Safran Crocus sativus L.

The largest traditional kitchen garden in French-speaking Switzerland, with its remarkable assortment of historic vegetable, fruit and flower varieties, is now open all year round. From October 2011 there will be two innovative ways for visitors young and old to rediscover the plants grown at Château de Prangins: an interpretation centre in the outhouse adjoining the garden, and an audioguide in several languages.

Located in an outhouse, the interpretation centre is open all year round and examines the various issues surrounding the kitchen garden at Château de Prangins. The format of the interactive exhibition showcases this natural heritage, and in particular mirrors the traditional four squares of the garden. Each segment is devoted to one of the seasons and to a plant that symbolises the garden, accompanied by pictures from plant photographer Janine Jousson.

The links between indoors and outside, between the garden and the exhibitions, are a constant feature, as is the dialogue between the 18th century and issues of contemporary relevance. The Sept-en-Gueule pear stands for biodiversity; saffron Crocus sativus L. is the basis for an examination of plant sexuality; the Vitelotte potato introduces the issues of agronomy and economics; and the silver spiny cardoon of Plainpalais highlights the role of migration in increasing plant variety.

There is plenty to occupy younger visitors too. A fictional character – the gardener’s son Alexandre – is on hand with games to play and an introduction to some of his favourite plants. The audioguide extends the visit outside, unlocking some of the many secrets of the garden and its exceptional vegetation.

Entrance to the interpretation centre is free of charge.

Support didactique «Le Jardin dévoilé»