On our way to the Western edge of the country we stopped over in Denver. Being a family trip, all decisions for food, sights, and expeditions required something of a consensus… Lucky for me that everyone was interested in visiting the Denver Botanic Garden.
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| Late August bloom |
For gardeners this is a “must-see” destination if you are in the West. It is the best botanical garden I have visited in terms of size, artistry, imaginative layouts, and landscape beauty. It is also highly educational for anyone interested in learning more of how to incorporate grasses and xeriscape landscaping into their yards and gardens.
Our visit was necessarily mid day, since my group are not earlybirds. The season was during the last days of August, and the West has been suffering a horrendous drought. The fact that the gardens were so lovely attests to the exquisite planning and work that must have gone into this fine place.
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| Streaming Scene |
Although many dry climate areas were exhibited, there was no lack of water features. Streams and ponds planted with gorgeous examples of water denizens abounded. From a large lily pond to reflection ponds, and little rivulets. The Japanese garden had a large water feature for a traditional bridge to cross over and with its own turtle sunning himself. And yes, a Koi pond was to be had, as well- the perfect place to take a short rest if you find the secret path that leads to a quiet, shady seating area where watching the Koi while sipping on my water was a welcome respite.
This is quite a large landscape to visit, and for us, necessary to leave before seeing the Mordecai Children’s Garden. I was very sorry to have to miss that, but the legs only last so long and the stomach needed the promised repast at Mimi’s Cafe.
That is the teaser for now, for the rest of this post, enjoy some selected photos of parts of the gardens. I have a large number, so this will be the topic of posts this week.
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| Places to catch a bite, if you wish |
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| A sunny border |
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| Hypertufa Container and Details |
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| Tritoma and Grasses |
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| Lily Pond |
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© 2012 written for Ilona’s Garden Journal. An excellent blog.