The Demonstration Garden Turns 10!

June 24, 2021

What a Difference 10 Years Makes!

From a vacant lot to a vibrant landmark, the Brightside Demonstration Garden has grown beyond our wildest dreams!  Just a decade ago, 20 U.S. Marines built the Demo Garden essentially in one week.  We especially thank those who helped plan and sponsor the development.  You can read about the Demo Garden’s origins here.

Open to the public, we invite you to stop by to learn about all of the native plants, stormwater management features and other sustainable elements the garden now includes!  (Have you seen our handcrafted, solitary bee house yet?!)

Daily visitors enjoy blooming flowers and foliage with the garden providing four seasons of interest.  People can also learn about what they can apply in their own backyard as well as relax under the giant purple coneflowers as they watch the busy pollinators. 

The Brightside Demonstration Garden has come a long way.  It’s now regularly featured on the  KPLR 11 weather report by meteorologist John Fuller (“South St. Louis city,” that’s us!).  It’s also, become quite the “Instragrammable” spot with our sparkling recycled glass pathway, illuminating Monarch butterfly entrance and a variety of flowers and plants as a scenic backdrop against a busy urban intersection. 

When you come to visit there is interpretative signage throughout the space which explains the wonderful features of the garden.  Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag us on social media!  Facebook: @OperationBrightside and Instragram/Twitter: @BrightsideSTL