The start of a new year prompted us to ask experts here at the Chicago Botanic Garden what they expect to see in 2015. Their predictions might help you anticipate problems, promote pollinators, and add interest to your own patch of green. What’s likely to trend? Rainwater management, cumulative stress problems, corresponding color schemes, new compact … Continue reading Top Gardening Trends for 2015
You don’t have to be Martha Stewart to fashion this charming star-shaped wreath from branches, raffia, zip ties, and a little duct tape. Find additional inspiration with a selection of wreaths created by Chicago Botanic Garden staff a few years ago. Just follow these step-by-step instructions from Heather Sherwood, one of our very creative senior … Continue reading Star Appeal for the Holidays
Of all the summer evening sights at the Chicago Botanic Garden, only one can compete with the flowers: the brides. Beautiful in their gowns, stepping delicately into the Krasberg Rose Garden or walking down toward the fountain at the Esplanade, they trail bridesmaids and tuxedoed men and happy families. As they pass, we onlookers stop … Continue reading True Garden Love Stories
Step past the sleepy stone lion, breathe in the cowslip primrose, and listen to the water trickle into an eighteenth-century lead cistern—the feeling is as timeless as the tiny thyme plants growing between the hand-pressed bricks. So how do we preserve that timeless feeling while making sure the English Walled Garden withstands the rigors of … Continue reading For the Ages: the English Walled Garden
A dozen red roses say, “I love you,” but horticulturists at the Chicago Botanic Garden transcend tradition on Valentine’s Day. Read on for thoughtful, unusual, and homemade floral gift ideas. Spouses can evoke their wedding day by combining flowers from their ceremony and reception into a Valentine’s bouquet, said Tim Pollak, outdoor floriculturist at the … Continue reading Roses Are Red…
