The Amy Goldman-Fowler Teaching Garden at New Mexico State University's Chile Pepper Institute is now open for self-guided tours – despite nearby road construction.
Visitors may take free self-guided tours through the quarter-acre garden anytime between sunrise and sunset Monday through Sunday during the chile-growing season. The garden is housed at NMSU's Fabián García Science Center in Las Cruces, 113 W. University Ave.
"Don't let the construction on University Avenue turn you away – you can still reach the garden," said April Beauchemin, program specialist at the Chile Pepper Institute.
Visitors may reach the garden headed westbound on University Avenue from South Main Street or headed eastbound via the science center's back entrance at 500 W. College Ave.
The garden's theme – "Flavor Nuances" – highlights the subtle and unique flavor profiles in different chile peppers.
"From the smokey heat of the Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) to the bold, savory flavor of the 'NuMex Big Jim', this year's garden showcases 159 different varieties of chile peppers from all over the world," Beauchemin said.
While on tours, visitors should take care to respect the garden and grounds, Beauchemin added. She recommends visiting in the early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the heat of the day, bringing proper skin protection and keeping hydrated. Visitors should be cautious if the grounds appear wet or muddy.
Guided tours are available for free this year, thanks to a generous contribution from the garden's namesake, Amy Goldman-Fowler. Reservations for guided tours may be made by calling 575-646-3028 or visiting the Chile Pepper Institute at the Fabián García Science Center.
"We invite the public to explore the garden and encourage local schools, youth programs and other educational groups to reach out to schedule a free guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of chile in New Mexico and the world," Beauchemin said.
The garden will close for tours when the first freeze arrives, usually around late October.
Established in 1995, the garden is named after Goldman-Fowler, a gardener, author, artist and philanthropist who advocated for seed saving, plant breeding, and heirloom fruits and vegetables. Goldman-Fowler's support makes the teaching garden possible every year.
For more information, visit https://cpi.nmsu.edu, follow the Chile Pepper Institute on Instagram and Facebook, call 575-646-3028, or email
The full article can be seen at https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/nmsu-chile-pepper-institute-teaching-garden-open-for-self-guided-tours/s/ed4336b7-e82b-46b3-99b0-22dbb3d3c573
