In 1991, Waters School’s grounds were barren: solid asphalt for nearly an entire city block. But encased in the pavement at the south end of the lot were four colossal bur oak trees that predate the city of Chicago’s founding. Inspired by the grandfather oaks, the community—students, parents, teachers, and neighbors—steadily began chipping away at the asphalt and planting gardens in its place.
After more than 30 years of hard restoration and stewardship work, Waters Garden now boasts more than 150 species of native plants and dozens of vegetable beds tended by students and community members. We stand in awe of the space created by our community and Mother Earth, an oasis in the middle of a bustling city neighborhood filled with berries, peace, beauty, friendship, and joy.
Read the Latest Garden News
- This Weekend: Garden Stewardship + Plant SalesGarden Stewardship Join us tomorrow morning (Sat. 5/11, 10am-lunchtime) for stewardship at Waters Garden! It will be a pretty low-key day since some of our usual volunteer crew will be celebrating Chicago River Day over at the Riverbank Neighbors site. … Continue reading This Weekend: Garden Stewardship + Plant Sales
- Garden Night + Help with Creeping CharlieAs usual, please join us tomorrow evening (Wed. 5/8, 5pm-sunset) for garden stewardship! In addition, we could use everyone’s help to tackle a creeping charlie problem! Also known as ground ivy, this aggressive invasive weed is especially easy to identify … Continue reading Garden Night + Help with Creeping Charlie
- Celebrate Earth Day 🌎 in the Garden This WeekendThis weekend brings two (!) opportunities to spend time in the garden. Join us tomorrow (Sat. 4/20, 10am-noon) for our regular garden stewardship day! It will likely be a pretty low-key group as many gardeners have commitments at other Earth … Continue reading Celebrate Earth Day 🌎 in the Garden This Weekend
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