What comes to mind when you think of a woodland?

For some, it’s a quiet forest trail lined with towering trees. For others, it’s wildlife, childhood stories, hidden mushrooms, or sunlight filtering through the canopy overhead.

That’s exactly what Woodland Wonders presented by Selner Tree & Shrub Care set out to explore.

This year, Green Bay Botanical Garden’s Horticulture Team was challenged to interpret the woodland theme in their own unique way. The result is a collection of gardens inspired by science, nature, imagination, conservation, culture, and personal experiences. Together, these gardens reveal that there isn’t just one woodland — there are many!

As you explore Woodland Wonders, you’ll discover the stories behind the plants and the people who brought them to life.

Woodland Science: The Hidden Systems That Make Forests Thrive

When we think about woodlands, we often notice the trees first. But some of the most important work happens beneath our feet.

The Wonderful Woodland Fungi garden shines a spotlight on one of the forest’s most overlooked heroes: fungi. These remarkable organisms help break down fallen leaves, branches, and other organic material, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting the health of the entire ecosystem.

Nearby, another garden explores the agricultural traditions of Native American Woodland Tribes. Featuring crops such as corn, beans, and squash, the garden celebrates the enduring story of the Three Sisters and the generations of knowledge that shaped sustainable growing practices throughout the region.

Together, these gardens encourage guests to look beyond the surface and appreciate the systems that make woodland ecosystems possible.

Woodland Wildlife: Finding Nature’s Characters

Woodlands are filled with fascinating creatures — and sometimes their influence shows up in unexpected places.

One garden features plants whose names were inspired by woodland animals. Guests may spot bunny tail grass, turtlehead, hummingbird mint, and other plants that blur the line between gardening and storytelling.

Another garden takes inspiration from one of Wisconsin’s most recognizable woodland residents: the white-tailed deer. Through color, texture, and plant selection, it reflects the beauty and familiarity of life in deer country… even the recongize blaze orange we see in fall.

These gardens remind us that woodlands are not just collections of plants — they are living communities filled with countless species interacting with one another.

Woodland Imagination: Stories, Fantasy, & Wonder

For generations, forests have inspired stories.

Many of us first encountered woodland wonder through books, fairy tales, and childhood adventures. Several Woodland Wonders gardens celebrate that tradition.

One garden was inspired by memories of “David the Gnome” and features a collection of whimsical gnomes nestled among plant containers. Another draws inspiration from Dr. Suess’s The Lorax, encouraging guests to see the natural world through a lens of imagination and curiosity.

Guests will also discover gardens that embrace the mystery and magic often associated with forests. Dark foliage, dramatic textures, and unexpected combinations create spaces that feel as though they belong in the pages of a fantasy book.

These gardens remind us that woodlands are not only places of ecology and science — they’re places that spark creativity and inspire wonder.

Woodland Beauty: Light, Color, & Place

Sometimes the greatest inspiration comes from simply paying attention.

One Woodland Wonders garden celebrates light itself — the way sunlight filters through leaves, shifts throughout the day, and helps sustain life beneath the canopy.

Another garden draws inspiration from Wisconsin’s iconic birch forests. Featuring a patriotic red, white, and blue palette, it honors both the beauty of our regional landscapes and our nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Guests will also find gardens inspired by the changing seasons, reminding us that woodlands remain beautiful throughout the year — not just during peak bloom.

These spaces celebrate the simple act of noticing: eyeing light, color, texture, and the many ways nature changes throughout the seasons.

Meet the Designers

Behind every Woodland Wonders garden is a member of Green Bay Botanical Garden’s Horticulture Team.

While each designer approached the theme differently, they shared a common goal: to help guests see woodlands from a new perspective.

Whether inspired by science, wildlife, childhood memories, conservation, or beauty, these gardens reflect the creativity, expertise, and passion of the people who care for the Garden every day.

More Than One Woodland

As you explore Woodland Wonders, you’ll quickly discover there isn’t a single definition of a woodland.

A woodland can be a place of science and discovery. A place of wildlife and conservation. A place of memories, imagination, and storytelling.

Most of all, it’s a place that invites us to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the connections that exist all around us.

The next time you visit the Garden, take a moment to read the signs, study the plant selections, and discover the inspiration behind each design. You may come away with a new appreciation for the creativity of our Horticulture Team — and for the many ways a woodland can inspire wonder.

Experience Woodland Wonders

Woodland Wonders is included with daily admission and free for Garden members. As the gardens grow and evolve throughout the season, each visit offers something new to discover! Make sure you download the Garden’s mobile app for something more.

Come for the summer, and explore the many faces of the woodland. You’ll find the one that speaks to you!