Theme Gardens

Herb of the Year Garden – is certified by the Illinois Herb Association as an educational garden.

In this theme area, each of the International Herb of the Year herbs are showcased and marked.

Other Theme Areas Include:

The butterfly garden; the children’s fairy tale garden, ‘rabbit cave’ story area, sensory garden and geode patio; also the sleepy time, poultice, pioneer, first aid, kitchen and peppermint paddy tea gardens.

Every year the theme areas change a bit! The teaching areas offer examples of sustainable gardening methods, alternative energy and healthy lifestyles.

Bella Luna Patio

A secluded patio, allow visitors the opportunity to stroll or simply to rest and enjoy.

This patio, arbor and other areas were made from milled power-line poles that crossed the farm’s woods for many decades.

Bella Sol Teaching Center

Sustainability is the theme. This two-story building was constructed primarily from recycled local materials. Exterior cedar siding was milled from old telephone poles. This wood was also used indoors for window trim, floor and ceiling molding, and more.

Other materials in the center (such as windows, wood, fixtures, braided rugs and more) were recycled from friends and other sources.
The downstairs teaching room boasts a lovely wall mural, painted by local artist Susan Daggett. Can you find the many animals hiding there? The mural, and other whimsical decorations, suggest a colonial barn ambiance.

Upstairs, the 22′ by 40′ teaching room is cheerful and cozy. It is equipped with an ample kitchen where students have an opportunity to learn by doing. Energy efficiency is enhanced through passive solar gain from south-facing windows which receive the warming winter sun and block summer heat.

Soy-bean based insulation was blown in and provides a solid R factor. Heating and cooling methods are energy star and allow for flexible use that saves on electricity.

A city-approved composting toilet adds to the goal of sustainable living. In addition, a Bergey 1kw wind turbine stands on an 80’ metal pole beside the barn. It is in place for the next building phase.