Garden maps

Last summer I snapped this 3-D map of Ohio on the wall at the information desk in one of the state run rest stops along the U.S. interstate highway.  

When I got up close to it I was disappointed to see that it was composed of artificial greenery. Not surprising given how much attention vertical gardens require. Even with fake foliage it was nice to see a bit of green in those big neutral highway buildings.

But it still strikes me as a great idea for those who like vertical gardening: A map of one's own state on the fence or wall in your garden. I can picture adding blue flowers for lakes and rivers. Or silvery foliage for mountains. Reminded me a bit of creating a "fern table," but on the wall instead of on a table. 

Comments

[Beth@PlantPostings]

That IS a good idea. And, as you say, not too difficult to create with live materials for those interested in doing so.

[Linda Brazill]

BETH — After I posted, Mark said I should have mentioned using your state's native plants!

[Kris P]

It's a neat idea, Linda. However, California's topography and climates are so diverse, I'm not sure how I'd proceed (assuming I found the patience to put something together) but SoCal could be represented by succulents and dry gravel!

[danger garden]

Thanks for sharing this! Even though it's made of fake plants, as you say it does add some green to a space that needs it. I won't be making one of Oregon or Washington but it got me thinking about how I'd represent the eastern sides of the states, maybe junipers and tumble weeds? People think of the entire PNW as being a green oasis but that's not the case.

[Linda Brazill]

KRIS & DANGER — Wisconsin has something known as the "tension line" that runs diagonally across the state from the northeast corner to the southwest corner. It is the line where the western-most edge of the Eastern hardwood forest meets the eastern-most edge of the tallgrass prairie. Thus similar to your states: Great variation that is mostly only known to residents. 
Plus we have the quirky distinction of being bordered by water on three sides: two Great Lakes (Michigan and Superior) and the Mississippi River. Makes for wonderful scenery but difficult for energy transmission as you can't string lines across those bodies of water.