There’s something magical about the springtime: new life peeks out of the ground, trees fill with song, the warm sun wakes us from a gray winter slumber. It’s a busy time here at Bartram’s Garden, and we’re so excited to share our hard work with you.
When you visit, be sure to take time to enjoy the beautiful spring blooms throughout the Garden. The native azaleas and historic tulip collection are making a statement that’s hard to miss! Meanwhile the bluebells, silverbells, and Persian lilies bloom more subtly, but are worth seeking out. For a fun surprise, pay a visit to the Carolina allspice shrub, whose dark flowers give off a fruity scent.
You’ll find lots to do in the Garden this season. We’ve partnered with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia for some exciting programs including neighborhood bike rides, adult riding workshops, free tune-ups, and Bikes & Boats events every 3rd Saturday. The Bicycle Coalition will maintain our fleet of bikes here at the Garden so anyone can join in the fun, even if you don’t have your own bike.
Have you noticed the enormous crane next to the Grays Ferry Bridge? It’s a sign of great things to come! Construction is underway on a new swing bridge that will connect the Bartram’s Mile trail with the Grays Ferry Crescent segment of the Schuylkill River trail, which should be completed next spring. This bridge will offer a wonderful new way for bikers and pedestrians from across the river to come visit the Garden, as well as for our neighbors to connect with the rest of the city!
We’ve also unveiled plans to construct a mussel hatchery here on the Tidal Schuylkill River. Freshwater mussels support river health by filtering large amounts of pollutants from the water, and this hatchery, built in collaboration with the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, will be able to produce millions of these mollusks. Even better, the hatchery will include teaching space for local students to come and learn more about the watershed.
It’s an exciting time at the garden! Whether you come to boat, fish, farm, see a movie, hear music, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature (and we hope you’ll try it all), Bartram’s Garden is your backyard. We can’t wait to see you here.
