Teagan Young

Academic Credentials:
• B.S. in Geography – Western Michigan University, 2018
• Co-enrolled M.S. in Environmental Horticulture and Doctor of Plant Medicine
Why DPM?
I am originally from Kalamazoo, MI. Unfortunately, my undergraduate university did not provide a program in horticulture or a related field. However, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, my local community college, did provide a class to the general community on topics such as sustainable homesteading and Rain Gardening which certified me as a Master of Rain Gardening. This experience with the addition of a study abroad trip to the Amazonian region of Brazil sparked my interest in furthering my education in horticulture.
In 2019, I moved to Gainesville, FL to attend the graduate Environmental Horticulture program. Through this program and my master’s research, I have gained knowledge within environmental horticulture with specific knowledge on propagation techniques. While completing my Master’s, I worked under the advisement of Dr. Wilson on the propagation methods for the wild coffee species Psychotria nervosa, Psychotria nervosa ‘Little Psycho,’ Psychotria ligustrifolia, and Psychotria tenuifolia. Propagating these species through seed is not an efficient method of propagations. Therefore, we are looked at the efficiency of propagating through stem cuttings with an addition of auxin levels of 0ppm, 8000ppm, and 16000ppm.
I’ve decided to pursue a degree with the Doctor of Plant Medicine Program and my goal after graduating is to own a native plant nursery that will provide flower U-pick (ornamental flowers and herbs), native landscape plants, and community courses on topics such as gardening techniques, pest and disease, and sustainable landscaping. I hope to inspire others to enjoy and protect the environment as much as I do.

Fun Fact:
My hobbies include gardening and collecting plants.