A Flourishing Future: Delaware Center for Horticulture Unveils Stunning Garden Transformation
September 12, 2024
In a resplendent nod to the power of community and environmental stewardship, the Delaware Center for Horticulture (DCH) celebrated a major milestone with the unveiling of the first phase of its garden renovation project—an ambitious reimagining of its grounds aptly titled *Rooted in Resilience: A Campaign for Community*. On September 11, 2024, local officials, donors, and horticultural enthusiasts gathered at DCH’s Trolley Square location for an event that marked years of careful planning and investment aimed at transforming the organization’s public spaces.
The historic renovation was more than a simple garden upgrade. It represented a deepened commitment to urban greening initiatives, embodying a tradition that stretches back to early champions of community-centered nature projects such as Jane Addams, the pioneer of social reform who understood the critical role of urban green spaces in fostering civic pride. Much like Addams’ efforts to beautify neglected city areas through the creation of Hull House gardens in Chicago, DCH is setting a new standard for urban environmental responsibility in Wilmington.
Joanne McGeoch Executive Director of Delaware Center for Horticulture delivers remarks during a reception to dedicate and celebrate the successful completion of DCH’s Entrance Garden Renovation Wednesday, September 11, 2024; at the Delaware Horticulture Center in Wilmington, Delaware. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
“Rooted in Resilience honors the heart of what we’ve always stood for—bringing people together through the simple yet transformative act of cultivating nature,” said Joanne McGeoch, Executive Director of DCH, to an applauding audience. “This project opens a new chapter for our gardens, creating a space where visitors can reconnect with nature, find inspiration, and understand the significance of environmental stewardship.”
The completed garden phase, strategically designed for both aesthetic and functional improvements, has been lauded for its cohesive blend of native and ornamental plants, which now greet visitors at the newly revamped entrance. The relocated entryway, framed by Belgian blocks and brick walkways, mirrors the timeless charm of nearby Trolley Square. In an era where cities are increasingly characterized by concrete sprawl, the enhancements signal a renewed embrace of nature’s soft, enduring beauty.
Aerial view of the gardens at Delaware Horticulture Center taking Monday, September 9, 2024 in Wilmington, DE. Photo By part 107 pilot Saquan Stimpson
Equally remarkable is the integration of eco-friendly amenities, including a bike parking and repair station, funded by Delaware Greenways, and sophisticated new lighting to illuminate the garden’s charm long after sunset. The result is a welcoming space that prioritizes both safety and sustainability, providing a haven for evening events while offering new visibility to the center’s mission-driven work.
DCH’s efforts reflect a broader national movement toward sustainability in public spaces, echoing the advocacy of Rachel Carson, whose *Silent Spring* awakened the nation to environmental conservation. In that same spirit, DCH’s leadership continues to expand the role of urban greenery as essential to the health and vitality of communities.
A Legacy of Green
Founded in 1977, the Delaware Center for Horticulture has long been a force for good in Wilmington and beyond. Over the decades, its initiatives—from the creation of the city’s first urban farm to the pioneering Branches to Chances® workforce program—have had a lasting impact. As a champion of public beautification projects and tree-planting campaigns, DCH remains a critical player in urban greening efforts across Delaware.
Vice President on our Board of Directors Carrie Wiles, presents gift to a donor during a reception to dedicate and celebrate the successful completion of DCH’s Entrance Garden Renovation Wednesday, September 11, 2024; at the Delaware Horticulture Center in Wilmington, Delaware. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
The vision for this renovation, however, would not have been possible without the generosity of dedicated patrons and benefactors. A community-driven endeavor from the start, the Rooted in Resilience campaign received financial support from key donors, including Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Hoopes, Jr. and Family in memory of Georgina M. Bissell, and contributions from philanthropic organizations like the Crystal Trust, Fair Play Foundation, and the Welfare Foundation. These benefactors, along with the tireless efforts of the DCH staff and volunteers, have ensured that the center’s mission will thrive for generations to come.
As DCH looks forward to the next phases of the campaign, the center’s vibrant gardens stand as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to invest in its shared green spaces—a fitting tribute to Delaware’s horticultural history and its future.
*Generous support for the Rooted in Resilience Campaign was provided by: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Hoopes, Jr. and Family in memory of Georgina M. Bissell, Mrs. Evelyn Price Scott, Ann and Calhoun Wick, Heather Richards Evans, Pam and Charlie Richards in memory of Helen S. Richards, and other community leaders, foundations, and anonymous benefactors dedicated to a flourishing future.*