In 1991, Waters School’s grounds were barren: solid asphalt for nearly an entire city block. But encased in the pavement at the south end of the lot were four colossal bur oak trees that predate the city of Chicago’s founding. Inspired by the grandfather oaks, the community—students, parents, teachers, and neighbors—steadily began chipping away at the asphalt and planting gardens in its place.
After more than 30 years of hard restoration and stewardship work, Waters Garden now boasts more than 150 species of native plants and dozens of vegetable beds tended by students and community members. We stand in awe of the space created by our community and Mother Earth, an oasis in the middle of a bustling city neighborhood filled with berries, peace, beauty, friendship, and joy.
Read the Latest Garden News
- Chicago River Day ! Join Us!Dear Waters School Families and Neighbors, You are invited to join Riverbank Neighbors, our sister organization, to work and learn at the RBN Natural Area, east Bank Chicago River, Montrose to south of Berteau. This is during the same time as our … Continue reading Chicago River Day ! Join Us!
- Keeping an Eye on the GardenWe saw a Kestrel in the garden staring at the ground, probably an eye on one of our many rabbits. We tried to get a photo but kestrels are small and it was a ways off. It made us wish that … Continue reading Keeping an Eye on the Garden
- Fences Protect Precious Plants, so do caring peopleHello Friends and Neighbors, Last Saturday a crew of artisanal gardeners restored the “White Tailed Deer Rain Garden” on the Maplewood parkway. The soil level was lowered, the bricks renewed and reset, new plants were added, and the hydrology of … Continue reading Fences Protect Precious Plants, so do caring people
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