Exploring Augmented Reality Applications in Botanical Gardens: A Pilot Study on Overcoming Seasonal Barriers

Abstract

Botanical gardens face persistent challenges with seasonal limits hindering plant observation and visitor engagement. This study examines how augmented reality (AR) addresses these barriers by enabling interaction with 3D models of off-season plants, offering visitors experiences otherwise unavailable during certain times of year. At Tsukuba Botanical Garden, field experiments let visitors manipulate digital models created by photogrammetry, providing an immersive, interactive layer beyond physical exhibits. Stamp rallies with quiz elements boosted participation. This paper focuses on the AR experience: forty participants of various ages moved freely through greenhouses and used AR to access details of six plant species, regardless of seasonal display. Building on these interactions, the survey showed that 95% of participants felt satisfied with the AR experience, and even those with little prior interest in plants engaged highly. Further analysis found a weak positive but non-significant correlation between participants’ prior interest in plants and their satisfaction with the AR observation. Participants also reported that AR deepened their understanding of plant structures and let them observe flowers not in bloom at the time. Taken together, these findings suggest that AR can significantly boost educational value and visitor motivation, highlighting its potential as a tool for inclusive, year-round botanical education.

Keywords: Augmented Reality (AR), Botanical Garden, Photogrammetry, Informal Science Education

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006894