Garden Of Earthly Detroits

Eat your heart out, Andy....

So I made it to the Riverwalk's butterfly garden, in Gabriel Richard Park, at the foot of Belle Isle Bridge.   I haven't forgotten the infuriating bronze thieves, but the dogs have. This garden is full of inspiration for the try-this-at-home types. Not sure what perennials to grow for late summer color? Or how to group them for impact? Bring a favorite garden book and a sketch pad. Or phone.

The Butterfly Effect....

This is a hugely underutilized park (I think due to lack of clearly designated parking- I park in the Brodhead armory lot), so you will likely have it to yourself.  If you are not used to the city, heads up. You may be approached by the housing-impaired for money. You might feel more comfortable visiting with friends and/or dogs. Just like in any city, wandering alone has risks.

Bee green..

Now, how do I make pretty flower pictures interesting to those who hate flower pictures? Well, the caption for each photo links to Detroit sites and projects of interest. You can play guess the connection before you click. Some are obvious, some not so much.

Urban prairie...and urban garden...

Hardy and uniquely beautiful, thrives in varied conditions with just a little love....

A place to read about Detroit's past.....

Cliche alert...stop and enjoy the flowers along the way....

Put in your two cents worth about the future...

Attract the creative class...Contemplate, meditate...Agitate, recreate...Ruminate, illuminate.

Gabriel Richard Park, where the butterfly garden is located, has plenty of benches, a meditation labyrinth, a mini-version of the concession building in Rivard Plaza (open for special events only), and a space-age freestanding restroom that must be experienced. Oh, and a great view of Belle Isle.