Native Planting Pollinator Garden
- Story of the Garden
The 21’ x 42’ plot above the east entrance to the lower level of the Municipal Center parking deck has seen many changes throughout the years. At one time, it was an employee garden filled with tomatoes, potatoes and peppers. However, following that venture, it returned to being a weedy patch of ground.
The Naperville Conservation Foundation is a strong proponent of native plantings and introduced City officials to the concept of a "pollination station" native planting garden in 2014. While considering different locations at which to install this type of garden, the plot above the parking deck entry quickly came to mind. After conducting a site visit in early 2015, a garden plan was designed pro-bono by the Hitchcock Design Group.
The garden was planted as a pollination station in July of 2015 by the Naperville Garden Club and Naperville Conservation Foundation. The City provided funds to purchase the seedling plant materials and mulch. As the weather turned colder, hungry rabbits decided the Black-eyed Susans were too appetizing to resist. Aside from the Black-Eyed Susans, which were replaced with another native species, the garden survived the winter of 2015 and flourished in 2016.
With confidence the plants have adapted well to the garden environment, a sign and refreshed pathway were installed in late 2016.
- Purpose of the Garden
The garden showcases a variety of native plant species and offers a critical habitat for butterflies and other pollinators which are essential for a healthy ecosystem. We invite you to explore the garden and take note of the species planted. Our hope is the Municipal Center pollination station will inspire others to plant native species in their own yards around Naperville and beyond.
Click here to view a list of and more information about species planted in the garden.