Milwaukee, WI
Boerner Botanical Gardens is a delight! Traditional perennial borders showcase a huge amount of plant material ALL of which is labeled. It’s run by the Milwaukee County Parks Department. With respect to parks departments everywhere, I’ve been to park-run gardens that are clearly operating on a short budget and mowing is the goal. Not this one. There’s some strong horticulture happening here! The garden is an official site for All-America Flower and Vegetable selections plus is a certified hosta and daylily display garden. Way back in 1934 to 1941, the Civilian Conservation Corps moved in over 1000 tons of limestone to create the rock garden.
We arrived just before a whale of a storm so the skies look troubled. I wish I’d taken photos in the gift shop. Most garden gift shops are all the same but Boerner’s features dozens of local artists. This is definitely worth the trip!
Fatsia loving the outdoors for summer 
Loads of Wisconsin limestone 
Agave with Sedum ‘Lidakense’ 
Hydrangea ‘Invincibelle Spriti’ is a strong performer 
The daylily walk is at its peak in July 
Hemerocallis ‘Coin of the Realm’ 
Hemerocallis ‘In Jane’s Honor’ 
Hemerocallis ‘Ruby Spider’ 
Allium ‘Graceful’ past bloom but still spectacular 
Don’t miss the trial garden across the parking lot! Achillea ‘Vintage’ series in violet, white and rose 
Hemerocallis ‘Big Smile’