Learn About Biophilia at Keeler Gardens

What Would You Like to Learn?

This little cluster will blossom into quite the display.
This little cluster will blossom into quite the display.

How motivated are you to start incorporating the natural world into your daily life. On a scale of 1 to 10, are you are thinking it is not a priority (1) or are you ready to go (10)? We have science, programs, techniques, and inspiration for everyone, at any level of interest. Let us show you how a connection with nature directs us to improve our well-being. We can make suggestions on how to make your environment more “natural.” And we can show you what we’ve accomplished so far at Keeler Gardens.

Take a look at the various types of programs we offer, and visit our Studies page for links to articles and studies. And if you are looking for something that is not described here, contact us and we will customize a program to meet your needs.

School Programs

The cottony coat of lamb's ear is amazingly soft to touch.
The cottony coat of lamb’s ear is amazingly soft to touch.

Children learn naturally at Keeler Gardens. From neighborhood youngsters to kids at the local high school, children in the garden love smelling flowers and surprising their unsuspecting parents with velvety Lamb’s Ear. We work with youth to bring the benefits of connecting with nature to the next generation.

Experiential Education

“I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand.” -Confucius

An avocado tree sprouting from seed.
An avocado tree sprouting from seed.

A garden is a great place to learn. What better way to learn about our desire to connect with nature than to be immersed in nature. With Keeler Gardens you and your group will be exposed to not only information, but experiences that will inspire and motivate you to adjust your environment.

Even in small ways, you can take advantage of the benefits of including nature in your world.

Open Work Days at Keeler Gardens

A tree goes in at Keeler Gardens for added structure.
A tree goes in at Keeler Gardens for added structure.

Keeler Gardens started as an experimental learning garden. Even though we have had much success we are always trying new things and invite you to come out and experience with us.

We plan open work days during which individuals or groups can come and learn together. You can work alongside us, we can schedule a specific program for you, or you can join us just to take advantage of some time outdoors.

From Keeler Gardens to Yours

Plants from Keeler Gardens ready to share.
Plants from Keeler Gardens ready to share.

We can certainly come to your location for on-site learning. Your site could be personal, community-based, a local school, or even a place of business. Our efforts to spread the message about the benefits of having a connection with nature often have a greater response when we present within a community that is looking for change.

When we green our communities we improve our well-being and the endeavor can be widely successful with the right support.

Guest Speaking

Keeler Gardens volunteers visit with garden clubs.
Keeler Gardens volunteers visit with garden clubs.

Would your group or community like more information on a particular topic? Keeler Gardens’ volunteers and professionals have spoken at a variety of venues on topics of shared value.

We are honored to be presenting at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show in spring of 2017. The titles of our talks are “The Transformation of an Urban Space” and “Mobile Photography in Your Garden.” You’ll find updates throughout our site as spring draws near.

Community Events

Keeler Gardens was a stop on the Old Irving Park Garden Walk.
Keeler Gardens was a stop on the Old Irving Park Garden Walk.

We want to grow with and support the community. Are you looking for a space to hold your event? We can host your event here at Keeler Gardens. Are you hosting a community fair and would you like Keeler Gardens to participate? We would happily join and share our message with your guests. Do you have an event you would like us to share with the larger community? We can add your event to our community calendar.

Containers at Keeler Gardens full of edibles and annuals.
Containers at Keeler Gardens full of edibles and annuals.