According to The American Lawn, edited by Georges Teysott, public lawns have been key fixtures in the Unites States for at least two centuries, as symbols of the colonial past and as a constant ideal in the American-built environment. They also provide lawn and garden enthusiasts with places to study the continually evolving art and science of landscaping.
To honor these spaces, Briggs & Stratton released its fifth consecutive Top 10 Lawns List, which recognizes outstanding public lawns across the country. Each of the top 10 lawns was evaluated on the following criteria: overall appearance, lawn and garden maintenance and care philosophy, use of green space to enhance or complement the look, visual appeal, and significance of the site. Turf management professionals, horticulturalists, landscape designers and lawn and garden experts nominated the noteworthy green spaces.
According to George Thompson, vice president, corporate communications and community relations, Briggs & Stratton, this year’s list includes a stunning array of gardens and landscaped public spaces, ranging from imposing historic sites to lush botanical gardens. “Each public space on the list reflects how nature’s beauty and the skill of professionals work together to enhance our lives,” he said.
This year, the Top 10 winners are:
- Denver Botanic Gardens (Denver, Colo.)
- Goldsmith Seeds (Gilroy, Calif.)
- Harry P. Leu Gardens (Orlando, Fla.)
- Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site (Springfield, Ill.)
- Missouri Botanical Garden (St. Louis, Mo.)
- North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh, N.C.)
- South Dakota State Capitol (Pierre, S.D.)
- The Children's Garden at The Oregon Garden (Silverton, Ore.)
- Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza (Phoenix, Ariz.)
- William Paca House and Garden (Annapolis, Md.)
The author is Managing Editor of Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached nwisniewski@lawnandlandscape.com.