A Garden for All Seasons

Western Pennsylvania is about to be invaded by massive bugs, but unlike the spotted lantern fly, these insects will be welcomed by throngs of visitors.

“Big Bugs + Pollinators” is an installation of 10 gigantic, anatomically accurate sculptures of pollinators, insects and spiders that will be on display from June 15 to Sept. 15 at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in North Fayette. Created by artist David Rogers, “Bugs” has been touring prestigious gardens, arboretums and theme parks throughout the country since its debut in 1994. Primarily made from found or selectively and sustainably harvested wood and other natural materials, the sculptures epitomize recycled, environmental art.

Since it opened almost 10 years ago, the Botanic Garden has become a regional asset that attracts, educates and entertains a range of visitors. It’s the creation of a group of horticulturists and plant lovers who shared a vision in the late 1980s of building a public garden that would highlight and conserve the native plants of Western Pennsylvania. In 1998, the 460-acre property was leased for 99 years from Allegheny County. Since then, 65 acres have been cultivated for public enjoyment.

As the property formerly was deep-mined (its location off Pinkerton Run Road speaks to its industrial coal history), environmental cleanup was challenging. Today, the garden treats 25 million gallons of acid mine drainage annually, returning it to a neutral pH and releasing it into the local watershed and ultimately to the Ohio River.

Numerous gardens have different highlights including the Hillside Pollinator Garden which examines pollination. The Garden of the Five Senses includes various hands-on activities, and the Margaret Lawrence Simon Dogwood Meadow has 200 flowering dogwood trees. There’s an apiary, an Asian Woodland and the Heritage Homestead, where visitors can learn about early European settlers and how they used the land.

In addition to the “Bugs” exhibit, summer brings nature adventure camps for children 4–12, including Fairy Garden, People of the Past, Support Our Pollinators, and Geocaching 101 Camps.

Adults will enjoy special events, such as “Dig!” on June 6. Billed as “Swinging and Singing in the Garden,” this evening features local jazz musicians, cocktails and dancing under the stars. On Aug. 9, “Growlers & Flowers” will feature local beer, food, music and entertainment.

Fall brings changing colors, crisp air and, on Oct. 24, a tour of the Ewing Walker Glass Log House, a lecture and whiskey tastings provided by local distilleries in recognition of the 230th anniversary of the ending of the Whiskey Rebellion. From Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day, the garden hosts Dazzling Nights, a walk-through light, laser and sound display, which attracted nearly 40,000 guests last year and includes immersive displays, cocoa and other treats.

In spring, the garden comes alive as buds and bulbs are bursting and the sounds of insects and returning migrating birds fill the air.

Activities (some included with admission) include yoga, tai chi and qigong, sound bath meditation, guided walks, tours, workshops and lectures. The welcome center includes the Canopy Café where you may eat outdoors under the tree canopy. A comprehensive gift shop, education rooms for workshops, private and corporate events and an art gallery featuring regional artists complete the facility. Several areas are available for rent, including the Davidson Event Center, a restored 1870s barn, modernized with a full commercial kitchen, restroom facilities and a tented Celebration Garden Patio with a stone, wood-burning fireplace. The gorgeous space accommodates up to 200 people.

Whether you are looking to learn more about the native flora of Western Pennsylvania, want to take a class or workshop or see David Rogers’ giant bugs, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is worth the drive.

(For more information on operating hours, directions, programs and membership, visit: pittsburghbotanicgarden.org).