Early Plantings Transform Arboretum Waterway

Thanks to construction finishing months ahead of schedule, Arboretum and Public Garden staff, students, and volunteers were able to begin planting along the Arboretum Waterway months earlier than expected. What was bare soil just a short time ago is already filling in with native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers—and wildlife is returning just as quickly.

"These early plantings are settling in beautifully,” said Nina Suzuki, assistant director. “It’s exciting to see the habitat taking shape so soon."

The head start has allowed teams to test how plant communities respond to the restored hydrology, and accelerate the ecological benefits envisioned for this project.

Above, explore a collection of before-and-after images—shared by Suzuki at a recent meeting—that capture the rapid transformation: lush new growth, emerging habitat areas, and the signs of a thriving ecosystem.