Whether students need a place to relax, want to see Koi fish swim, or enjoy the nature of Fresno City College’s botanical garden, Quentin Pryce, the horticultural program specialist, is there to maintain the growth, care and beauty of the garden and plants around campus.

Pryce was raised in Fresno. He learned about growing plants from his grandparents on both sides of his family.

“They instilled that into me. Taking care of plants was always a big part of my upbringing, and where I get a sense of wonder for nature and all living things,” Pryce said.

Pryce first attended FCC as a student in 2012 and worked towards his associate degree in science, graduating in 2017.

Pryce is preparing to seed more native plants within the garden and around campus, and is even attending a class to enhance his education on growing and producing the best plants.

“I think science is a place where you can find a home, especially in life sciences,” Pryce said.

Pryce is also looking forward to expanding the tree walk. He is maintaining the trees’ health and making sure the proper signage is in place. He wants to show students what the tree walk can offer.

Pryce said that it’s a “rare thing” for students to even recognize or know that we have a tree walk, and suggests that anyone interested should pick up a tree walk booklet at the Botanical Garden.

“Each tree has a little number that corresponds to it. In the booklet, the numbered trees will explain each tree’s importance and history,” Pryce said. 

One tree Pryce said he wants to expand across campus is the Valley Oak Tree. He said it is an important keystone species in our environment and homes many insects, squirrels and more.

One final note Pryce wanted students to know is that the garden is always open for anyone to come and visit.

“We especially want our students to come and visit this space. Check out the Koi Pond, and the Greenhouse, this is a resource for anybody to come explore and enjoy and learn new things,” Pryce said.