Location: 622 Town Rd., West Chicago. Park in the lot directly across from the entrance. Cross the street and enter the Garden on the blacktop to the LEFT of the building. There will not be a sign but we’ll have someone there to direct you into the Garden.
The Garden tours at Ball are “self-guided”, however we have several Master Gardeners who have been trained as docents. You are welcome to bring a family member or friend or two. The Gardens at Ball “…have been the evaluation and testing grounds for the world’s wealth of horticultural introductions and improvements for over 80 years. What began as a row trial garden for seed varieties in 1933 has grown to encompass over 9 acres of display beds for annuals, perennials, cut flowers and vegetables, including the newest plants from the industry’s leading breeders and marketers.” In short, it’s a jaw-dropping visual feast for any gardener.
The tour will take approximately 1 ½ – 2 hours & requires a lot of walking on gravel paths. There are 18 areas to visit and include the trial gardens, annuals, perennials, roses, container gardens, woodland walk, & hillside garden. Collectively, the gardens feature plants from Ball Horticulture, Burpee, Ball FloraPlant, PanAmerican Seed, Darwin Perennials & Kieft Seed. Most of the gardens are in sun.
You are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring/wear sunscreen, hat, & insect repellent (as the shady area does tend to have mosquitoes).
You also may want to bring an umbrella if the day is predicted to be sunny as there are few areas of shade. Also bring water so you stay hydrated. There are restrooms in the Garden.
Reminder: Master Gardeners who attend will be able to claim up to 2 hours as Continuing Ed on GivePulse. Travel time should not be included. For those that are interested, after the tour, we plan to stop at the Egg Yolk Café on Rt. 59 & Washington St. in West Chicago for lunch. Please bring cash to pay for your portion of the bill.
If you were originally scheduled to attend, PLEASE TEXT OR EMAIL LINDA by September 1st to let her know if you will join us for the tour and the lunch. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions. We’re looking forward to seeing you September 3rd!
