I just returned from visiting my son in Chicago. The architecture, the food, major league sports, and the views of Lake Michigan may take center stage but the landscaping and green space were the icing on the tourist cake for this gardener.
Out of 50 of America’s largest cities, Chicago is ranked #9 in green space per capita with more than 42,744 square feet of grass, trees, and other vegetation.
From the Garden of the Phoenix to Promontory Point, roughly 98% of Chicagoans are within a 10-minute walk of some of the best-kept parks in the country. Countless outdoor festivals, concerts, and other events are hosted in its nearly 600 parks. The city is working with two nonprofits on Grounds for Peace, a program to turn vacant lots into green space in some of the city’s most troubled neighborhoods.
I was astounded at the number of flowers still in bloom from the spring and summer plantings including coneflowers, impatiens, canna lilies, angel wing begonias, New Guinea impatiens, celosia, and hydrangeas. Every few feet along Michigan Avenue, delightful flower beds brimming with color provided a welcoming sight after walking about 2 miles a day to sightsee. I expected blooms would be winding down in this beginning of October in the Zone 5 planting area for the Windy City and granted some of the spent flowers were being replaced by landscapers right before my eyes as summer fades to fall.
As my son and I strolled alongside the Chicago River, we saw huge window box type planters that adorned the opposite side of the river walk. The planters must have been at least four feet wide and a foot deep. It was the perfect way to showcase one of the most beautiful and popular areas of the city.
I can’t wait to return, perhaps next spring, although in Chicago sometimes it’s hard to determine when spring and the weather actually coincide. One of my only regrets during this visit was not being able to tour the Lincoln Park Conservatory but it was closed on a Monday when we planned to visit. But I have many floral memories to savor until I return.
When my son graduated from high school, we visited Chicago during his spring break. Now that he resides in this glorious city, I will return in the spring. It is a feast for the senses and I intend to savor every minute in every season. Now that my #1 and only son calls Chicago home, there is even more reason to return.
On a final note, don’t forget to check out Now Habersham next week for our monthly giveaway with Lowe’s of Cornelia that will put you in full fall mode.
