Located in Wilmington, Delaware, the Delaware Center for Horticulture (DCH) is a nonprofit membership organization and regional leader in public greening. DCH advocates for creating healthier communities through the power of plants and encourages statewide community greening efforts in both urban and suburban environments.
“At DCH, we really strive to inspire an appreciation of the natural environment,” said Caitlyn Ridgley, Communications Manager at the Delaware Center for Horticulture. “All of our programs and events are designed to foster a dedication to improving our communities through horticulture and conservation.”
The Delaware Center for Horticulture offers adult and youth educational programs, employment training, and professional services. The DCH grounds are free and open to the public for their enjoyment, and community members can rent the facilities for corporate gatherings, weddings, bridal showers, or other celebratory events. DCH hosts numerous events throughout the year, including exhibits, lectures, tree sales, and even a rare plant auction. Check out their events calendar to find something interesting!
Greening Program
The Delaware Center for Horticulture is dedicated to greening efforts in Delaware communities. Their statewide greening program has three components: community forestry, public landscapes, and community collaborations.
Through the Community Forestry Program, DCH partners with cities, towns, nonprofits, corporations, and neighborhoods to engage in tree planting and stewardship projects and assist with planning and maintaining Delaware’s urban forests.
The DCH Public Landscapes Program brings together individuals, neighborhoods, governments, and businesses to invest in local communities through public horticulture projects in both urban and suburban environments. Some projects include the ACME Bioswale in Trolley Square, Brandywine Mills Plaza, Lovering Avenue, and the E.D. Robinson Urban Farm.
Community Collaborations were first initiated by DCH through urban agriculture in 1977 and have expanded to encompass community garden spaces. This program continues to utilize urban agriculture as a tool to engage and beautify neighborhoods, improve public health, provide access to fresh, locally grown produce, and teach the basics of plant science. Current garden space collaborations include partnerships with schools, congregations, and individuals.
“The Delaware Center for Horticulture serves as a vital resource through all avenues of our work,” continued Ridgley. “Our work usually takes us out into the community, but we invite everyone to come visit us! Enjoy the beautiful grounds, attend an event, or join us in our efforts by becoming a member or a volunteer.”
The Delaware Center for Horticulture gardens are free and open to the public every day from dawn until dusk, and the center is open 8 AM – 4 PM Monday through Friday.
1810 N. Dupont Street
Wilmington, DE 19806
302-658-6262
info@thedch.org
To learn more, visit thedch.org and follow the Delaware Center for Horticulture on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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