Corn for the Community


Out at our field research site in St. Charles, our scientists conduct research that could help feed the world. But for the past few years, a section of that same site has also taken on another job: feeding people right here in St. Louis. Last month, about 20 volunteers gathered at the site early in the morning to harvest nearly a full acre of sweet corn to donate to Operation Food Search (OFS), Missouri's largest independent food bank. This marked the fourth year in a row that the Danforth Center has partnered with OFS in this way, and working together, we've helped get thousands of pounds of fresh corn to those who need it throughout the St. Louis metro area.

A Threat to Research

The Center speaks out against proposed changes to federal funding rules. Read more.

Image Data for All

In the face of grant scarcity, Plant CV earns a rare NSF award. Read more.

Doubly Honored

Two of our scientists were just awarded national honors. Read more.

The Power of Mosses

They’re vital to regulating carbon, but how will they respond to rising temperatures? Read more.

Plants, People, Planet

Allison Miller, PhD, has a plan to protect grapevine diversity. Read more.

Featured in Forbes

Erin Sparks, PhD, discussed the need for climate-resilient crops. Read more.

Giles on Winning STL

The Danforth Center president sat down for an in-depth interview with the St. Louis Post Dispatch. Read more.

Grow Challenge

It's nearly Grow Challenge time. Once a year, the Danforth Center Young Friends lead this fundraising push that culminates with Party with the Plants. Learn more.

Events: Party with the Plants | September 25

Hosted by the Danforth Center Young Friends, the 2026 Young Friends Party with the Plants is a fundraising celebration that gives attendees the chance to meet and socialize with Danforth Center scientists, sample drinks and hors d'oeuvres from local vendors, try out unique scientific activities, compete for raffle prizes, and much more.

Future Forward: Speed Innovation

Opening Doors