Celebrate pollinator month with a visit to Capitol Campus gardens
June is National Pollinator Month – a fantastic time to experience the diverse flora of Capitol Campus.
Two gardens to explore
On West Capitol Campus, the historic Sunken Garden, designed by the Olmsted Brothers a century ago, is tucked five feet below ground level. For many years this garden was filled with roses, but in recent years was redesigned to fit the Olmsted’s original vision with diverse and native plants. Both perennials and annuals fill the garden to ensure constant blooms for pollinators and a full-color experience for visitors.
The educational Pollinator Garden on East Capitol Campus hosts native perennials that attract bees, birds, and butterflies. Thanks to a partnership between DES and other state agencies, the Woodland Park Zoo, and the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, the space provides food, shelter, and safety to pollinators among the carefully planted flowers and shrubs. Signs throughout the garden teach about the importance of pollinators for a healthy environment.
Expanding spaces for nature & community
Our commitment to supporting pollinators continues with a garden currently in development near the Legislative Building. The new Sensory Garden will be a place for sight, sound, and feel, intended for people of all ages and abilities to experience nature.
As stewards of the campus, we balance government function, public access, and historic preservation. We strive to create pollinator-friendly spaces, reducing pesticide use and planting native species to ensure pollinators have what they need to thrive.
More information
- Sign up for a Botanical Tour.
- Stroll through the Sunken Garden, a historic Olmsted landscape.
- Learn all about pollinators in the educational Pollinator Garden.
Contact Us
DES Communications
communications@des.wa.gov
360-407-8200