Zoo InternQuest is a career exploration program for high school students. For more information see the Zoo InternQuest Journals. For more photos see the Zoo InternQuest Photo Journal.

Let’s go to the Zoo to see the . . . plants? When I think “Zoo,” I do not picture the array of plant species that inhabit the Zoo grounds. Images of exotic animals are what come to mind: orangutans, lions, snakes . . . It seems as if I overlook the vegetation that lines the pathways, which also call the San Diego Zoo home.

Christy Powell, the plant propagator at the Zoo, revealed a whole new green side of the Zoo grounds to us. At the nursery, Mrs. Powell introduced us to a touch-sensitive plant called the Mimosa pudica. What it did was fascinating; its leaves folded inwards less than a second after I gently stroked it and just picking up the plant caused all of its leaves react likewise. Although scientists are not sure of the purpose for this movement, many think it may act as a defense method against predators. Insects with the intent to eat it may be taken aback by its movement and leave the plant alone.

Gaining knowledge about plants is great, but the most overlooked quality about them is that they are attention-loving and require hands-on nurturing. “Thousands,” is Mrs. Powell’s answer to the question, “How many plants have you propagated?” And planting the seed is just one step to producing a healthy plant. Mrs. Powell explained that each type of plant requires unique care. Some plants need to be kept sheltered from the winter rains; others need a humid, wet environment. Some thrive in shady areas. Others do best in abundant sunlight.

Two interns touch the Mimosa Pudica

At the plant nursery, we got a handle on plants, re-potting eucalyptus and acacia trees which were less than a foot tall and skinnier than a pencil, into larger pots. The roots of the baby trees, expanding, need more room to grow, required larger containers. Eventually, when big enough, they will be planted inside of the Zoo or at the browse farm that the Zoological Society operates in north San Diego county, for the sole purpose of feeding the animals at the Zoo and Park.

Getting dirt under my fingernails, and soil on my shirt, the work was grungy, but enjoyable. It’s exciting to think that the very plant you are re-potting will one day be a solid and large tree, part of the landscape of the Zoo. It’s similar to having a garden, whether it consists of roses or vegetables. Getting soil stains on your pants or calluses from pruning your plants is all a part of the labor. But when the yellow roses bloom in spring, or you take a bite of a juicy, succulent Roma tomato, it’s nice to truly enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Celena, Real World Team

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