This weekend, I had the privilege of exploring the gardens comprising the Winona State University Arboretum alongside fellow Winona County Master Gardeners. For those of you not familiar with WSU, nestled in the heart of Winona, Minnesota, lies a hidden gem: Winona State University’s Arboretum. This serene sanctuary offers a tranquil retreat from bustling campus life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of carefully curated gardens, diverse plant species, and peaceful walking trails.
We were fortunate to have as one of our guides, Nathan Anderson, the Landscape Arboretum Director. He recently finished a year-long fellowship at the world-renowned Longwood Garden, which included a two-month field placement at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in New Zeeland. So excited to have someone with his knowledge and passion in our local community. But back to the arboretum.
The Arboretum spans over 100 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds, showcasing a rich tapestry of flora and fauna native to the Upper Mississippi River Valley. From towering oak trees to delicate wildflowers, each corner of this botanical paradise holds something unique to discover. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a bird watcher, or simply seeking a quiet spot for contemplation, the Arboretum promises a feast for the senses in every season.
The Arboretum hosts guided tours, workshops, and lectures on topics ranging from horticulture to conservation biology, offering hands-on learning experiences that enrich understanding of local ecology and environmental stewardship.
Central to the mission of WSU’s Arboretum is the commitment to conservation and sustainability. The Arboretum serves as a living laboratory for research on plant biodiversity and ecological restoration, collaborating with local conservation organizations to preserve natural habitats and promote responsible land stewardship.
When it comes to its gardens, WSU's Arboretum boasts a variety of gardens that cater to different themes and purposes, each offering a unique experience for visitors. During our tour, we focused mostly on native plant gardens, and I was thrilled, as that is where my heart lies.
While I love the meticulously designed gardens, and the sense of order and elegance of formal gardens, I have a heart conservation and preservation, which is why gardens focused on indigenous flora, which highlight the beauty and importance of native plants in local ecosystems, will always have my heart.
The Indigenous Learning Center
This garden serves as a vibrant hub for cultural education and environmental stewardship. Situated within the arboretum's serene landscape, this garden honors indigenous knowledge and traditions through experiential learning and community engagement. Featuring native plant gardens, it fosters a deeper understanding of local ecosystems and the cultural significance of indigenous plants. The center invites students, faculty, and visitors alike to explore and celebrate the rich heritage of Indigenous communities while promoting sustainability and respect for the land.
One aspect I appreciate about the Indigenous Learning Garden is that the staff recognizes the delicate balance between their own knowledge and visitors' interpretations, particularly from indigenous perspectives. They acknowledge that this garden is a mutual learning experience, fostering understanding and growth for all involved.
Sorry about the gunky photo, but I love learning, and the Medicine Wheel is something I learned about during this tour.
Wild bergamot
Prairie Sage, with its silver leaves, stole my heart.
Large-flowered Gaura
En masse Gaura, makes for a striking focal point.
Hoary skullcap
Intergrated Wellness Center (IWC) Native Plants Garden
This garden showcases a wide array of species indigenous to the local area. These plants have evolved over centuries to thrive in the specific climate, soil conditions, and ecosystems of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can explore a tapestry of wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees that play essential roles in supporting local wildlife and maintaining ecosystem balance.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the garden serves as an educational resource, providing information about the ecological importance of native plants. Interpretive signage and educational materials highlight the benefits of using native plants in landscaping, such as their ability to attract pollinators, conserve water, and reduce the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
By showcasing these plants in a cultivated garden setting, the Arboretum encourages homeowners, landscapers, and gardeners to incorporate native plants into their own landscapes, thereby supporting local biodiversity and contributing to broader conservation goals.
Meditation Garden
The Meditation Garden is a serene oasis designed specifically to foster tranquility, reflection, and a sense of inner peace thanks to the different elements that encourage mindfulness and relaxation. This garden appealed so much to me because it feels completely different than the other ones. And the energy is completely different here. The plant selection from Japanese anemones to ferns and moss enhance the calming feel of this space. While this garden does not have a water feature typical of meditation gardens, it does have a dry stream that gives a sense of flow. This garden is a sanctuary within nature—a place where students, staff and visitors can retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, reconnect with themselves, and find moments of peace and clarity amidst the beauty of the natural world.
Japanese anemone
Masses of ferns and hostas under the canopy of trees offers a serene focus while in this garden.
A dry stream provides a sense of flow in this space.
Integrating Nature into Urban Landscape
WSU creatively integrates nature into its urban landscape to transform concrete areas into vibrant, green spaces that benefit both the campus community and the environment. WSU places a strong emphasis on urban forestry, actively planting and maintaining trees throughout the campus.
Trees not only beautify the environment but also provide shade, improve air quality, and create habitats for wildlife, enhancing the overall campus experience. This, in addition to sustainable landscaping practices such as native plantings, xeriscaping (low-water landscaping), and the use of recycled materials, reduce water consumption, minimize maintenance costs, and support local biodiversity.
In essence, Winona State University effectively breaks the monotony of urban concrete areas by embracing nature as an integral part of its campus planning and design. Thus, creating a harmonious balance between urban development and natural conservation, enriching the campus experience for all.
Each garden within Winona State University's Arboretum offers its own charm and educational value, contributing to the overall mission of conservation, education, and community engagement. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, these gardens provide a delightful and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Amazing link-ups I enjoy—
Mondays - Hearth & Soul Community, You Are The Star, In A Vase on Monday, Love Your Creativity Link-Party // Tuesdays- Nature Notes // Wednesdays- Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop, Karin’s Kottage // Thursdays- Full Plate Thursday, Thursday Favorite Things // Fridays- Farmhouse Fridays, Five Minute Friday // Create, Bake, Grow & Gather Party