Three different types of natural Iowa landscapes organize the gardens: lowland, mesic and upland landscapes. These types are either wetlands or dry, shady or sunny. In these landscapes are a series of gardens connected by a loop path. The goal of the Stafford Arboretum Garden is not to recreate these landscapes, but to use their plant palettes to create garden types. Two existing features of this area, 70- to 80-year old sycamore trees and the third hole "bullring" or "donut" of the old Ames Golf and Country Club have been preserved in this garden. There is a beautiful wooden boardwalk at this garden entrance that leads visitors over a wetland to a seating area near a water feature. This area is a bog garden that flows through the mesic area. Following the path brings visitors high into a series of rock outcrops. This area is the southernmost point of the Gardens.
Please click on the thumbnails below to view full size images.
