Wallace Landscape Associates entertained a few friends and colleagues at Chanticleer, a jewel of a public garden located on Church Road in Wayne, PA. Chanticleer, more than any public garden I know, characterizes the art of gardening.
You could drive by and never realize the delights awaiting you behind the iron gates of Chanticleer. Gracefully rolling lawns and mature trees create the setting for spectacular planting beds, borders, containers and garden rooms. A “Ruin Garden” with a unique reflecting table; a woodland glade; streamside plantings; lush combinations of flower and texture…are all too wonderful for words. Chanticleer must be seen to be appreciated.
Adolph and Christine Rosengarten purchased the property to build a summer retreat from the heat of Philadelphia. The house, completed in 1913, eventually became their year around home and they purchased adjacent properties for their son and daughter. Their son Adolph Jr. left the three properties in trust “for the enjoyment and education of the public”. Chanticleer Garden opened to the public in 1993. There are 12 gardeners and 5 administrative and education staff.
The gardeners, who are each responsible for a section, take a leading role in plant selection and placement. The result is both incredibly beautiful and practical. Every time I visit Chanticleer, I come away with ideas for my own garden. Aside from the profound pleasure of strolling through spectacular plantings, structures, and garden ornaments, the ‘down-to-earth’ quality is one of its most valuable features.
We take special pride in visiting this wonderful garden. In the early 1990’s, as Chanticleer was prepared for its public opening, Wallace Landscape Associates was an active participant in the process. Our crews constructed walking paths, steps and paved areas including the pool terrace. If you are inspired by Chanticleer Gardens, call on Wallace Landscape Associates to turn your vision into reality.
