From alpine-inspired plantings to pollinator-friendly habitats, 12 themed gardens surround the Anythink Nature Library, inviting visitors to experience Colorado’s natural beauty in a single walk through the grounds.
“The gardens were designed as immersive spaces where visitors of all ages can explore, discover and develop a deeper appreciation for the diverse landscapes and ecosystems found throughout Colorado,” said Anthony Otjens, associates project manager with landscape architecture company THK Associates, Inc.
Each garden has a different theme, including Rocky Mountain, Seasonal Interest, Desert, Shade, Pollinator, Ornamental Grass, Colorado Native, Prairie, Sensory and Indigenous Gardens, as well as a dedicated Community Garden through Denver Urban Gardens and a Learning Garden.
“The themed gardens were designed to showcase the diversity of Colorado’s landscapes within a single destination,” Otjens said. “By experiencing a variety of environments side by side, visitors can better understand how different plants, ecosystems and growing conditions shape each region.”
Nature Library Guide Lisette Martínez said the layout will allow guests to experience Colorado’s various climates and wildlife.
“In nature, you can’t go to the prairie and see the same plants that are in the alpine landscape. If we create that for folks, they can learn and experience that without needing to drive four hours into the mountains.”
Martínez hopes visitors will come to “develop a relationship with the plants” and get to know them. The Learning Garden is one way the Nature Library’s staff plans to encourage guests to do just that.
“The Learning Garden will be a space for programming and library use,” Martínez said. “We saw (though the community survey) that there’s a lot of interest in gardening, so we definitely want to bring that into the programming.”
Martínez views the outdoor space as a free “mini botanical gardens,” and encourages Adams County residents to visit.
“It just brings something to the neighborhood and the community you don’t find elsewhere. I think that’s really special.”
