Christmas in Detroit: A Pilgrimage to Gardeners’ Midwest Mecca

Photography by Christine Chitnis for Gardenista.

Above: Trees wrapped in burlap and tied with red ribbon make a festive holiday display in front of a living ivy wall.

Inside, different rooms have living walls and elaborate displays, and it is then that the full beauty and uniqueness of the shop hits you.

Above: Oversized twinkling wreaths frame a fountain on a living wall.

Above: A bit of sparkle; simple silver ornaments nestle in a bowl.

Above: Rounds of twinkly lights frame the living wall and fountain, creating a sparkling vignette.

Above: Every year, the shop has a silver bell made and engraved with the year.  A strand hangs on the door of the shop, and jingles as shoppers enter.

Above: Garlands of all types are strewn about the shop, including this charming, simple garland of monochrome oak leaves and acorns.

Above: A wall of pots and garden accessories. Detroit Garden Works does landscaping work throughout Southern Michigan, including everything from elaborate pots in the warmer months to garlands and holiday decor during the holidays.  In fact, November and December are as busy as May and June for the landscaping business.

Above: Christmas bells and garland.

Above: Lighted trees in the shop’s courtyard surround a simple wooden bench.

Above: Birch branches and evergreen swathes in the window boxes.  The shop gets its holiday decorations after all thr clients are taken care of.  The simple palette ensures that the decorations can stay throughout the winter months, without feeling too “holiday.”

Visiting the Midwest for the holidays? Stop in at another of our favorite shops, A New Leaf in Chicago.