… turn my head on a winter walk. Or, on a quiet day, it’s the sound of pine cones popping open to spread their seeds. As director of living plant documentation at the Chicago Botanic Garden, it’s my job to notice plants. You’d think I’d get tired of it. Nope. Nature never disappoints. Even on the … to give way to positive emotions such as compassion and gratitude, the study finds. Winter is the time to cultivate awe. It’s a season in which hidden beauty is revealed—as long as you …
Type: Blog
… Winter is a great time to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and wildlife around you. After a big snow, I encourage you to take a walk around your neighborhood—or at the Chicago Botanic Garden and other green space—to …
Type: Blog
… might have two plants developing inflorescences at the same time. But it did not take too long to brainstorm some ideas on what we hope to learn from this rare possibility. The plants have been named Java and Sumatra, in recognition … the nation of Indonesia. Amorphophallus titanum , the Latin name for the titan arum species, is native to the island of Sumatra. The corms of the Titan Twins were almost identical in weight …
Type: Blog
… table…but have you thought about a centerpiece yet? A cornucopia, or horn of plenty, is a classically beautiful, easy, and crowd-pleasing way to pull together a centerpiece without a lot of fuss or expense. I taught a fall cornucopia … is basically the same. Once your supplies are gathered, it should take less than an hour to put together. Essential tools include pruners, floral foam, and a hot-glue gun. Gather the …
Type: Blog
… we will review skills, get our hands messy, and try something new in the kitchen. No need to pack a lunch, we’ll make it. Ages 10 – 14 ITW Kitchen, Learning Center November 10: …
Type: Item Detail
… excellent lateral branches, and larger-than-normal flowers. Butterflies and bees are attracted to the nectar. Plant 'Anbluim' in full sun when nighttime low temperatures do not fall below 60 …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Be inspired by the winter containers at the Garden and learn ways to extend your own into the winter season. Then prepare a container with fresh-cut evergreen …
Type: Item Detail
… In spring, the new leaves emerge beet-red, fade to greenish-bronze on top, and remain purple on the undersides. The stems are even purple too! In …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… family. It blooms in late summer with small white-lavender flowers. It can grow in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, fertile soils. Useful as groundcover for controlling erosion, …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… moisture retentive, well-drained soils; do not mulch too close around the crown of the plant to avoid disease issues, particularly in heavy clay soils. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
