Chrysanthemums & More!

CHRYSANTHEMUMS & MORE!

Friday, September 20–Sunday, October 27

Modern meets mum in this year’s annual exhibition. Come walk among our larger-than-life blooms, pendulant topiary spheres and autumn abundance as we explore the timeless art of the chrysanthemum.

Nature’s canvas takes on a distinctively modern twist at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park as we usher in Chrysanthemums & More!, our annual autumn exhibition and the largest of its kind in Michigan.

While we always dream up and deliver dynamic displays of fall’s best flowers and foliage, this year’s horticultural artistry is more contemporary than classic. Fresh, modern touches make for a whole new experience, indoors and out. Expect the unexpected as you explore our tailored techniques, which include intriguing groups of single hues and textures in vivid varieties like orange mums and rainbow chard, paired with equally lush squash and lime green apples. Every display has been artfully arranged to create commanding, bold patterns that beg a closer look.

The heart of the exhibition is the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, where specialty chrysanthemums take on intentionally modern forms and lines that organically flow into the Earl & Donalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor and Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Each week during the exhibition, local florists will return to create exclusive, one-of-akind arrangements that keep the Gunberg Corridor fresh and inviting.

Outdoor displays showcase an artist’s touch, too. As you arrive, admire the chrysanthemum creations and fall foliage in the Grand Entry, then venture out into the crisp autumn air to the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, Volunteer Tribute Garden and Medallion Garden for more noteworthy plantings. Make time to take in the Michigan’s Farm Garden, where the fall harvest is in full swing. From heirloom vegetables, herbs and gourds to larger-than-life pumpkins, this family farm provides a feast for the eyes and more than 40 varieties of delicious produce, many of which are used in our James & Shirley Balk Café. Before you leave, refuel with a healthy, homegrown lunch. We promise something pleasing to every palate, including the kids.

Family fun continues all season, as we welcome members and guests from far and wide to our popular Herb & Gourd Fest in September and Fall Family Day, Fall Bonsai Show and Tuesdays at the Farm in September and October. Check MeijerGardens.org/calendar for details. If you’re a chrysanthemum devotee, be sure to save the date for Mum Day on Sunday, October 20, to meet our Horticulture team as they share insights into the creation of our fascinating fall plantings. We look forward to treating you to an artful autumn.

Beautiful chrysanthemums in a variety of hues can be seen both indoors and out.

Photo by Johnny Quirin