Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen is renowned for its majestic peaks, premier skiing, and rich cultural offerings. Yet, beyond its famed winter allure, Aspen reveals another facet of its charm through the annual spectacle of hanging flower baskets and vibrant summer blooms.
As temperatures rise and Aspen emerges from its winter slumber, the town streets undergo a floral transformation. Central to this metamorphosis are the iconic hanging baskets that embellish lampposts, storefronts, and bridges with a profusion of blossoms. Bursting with petunias, geraniums, and a kaleidoscope of hues, these baskets have become a beloved tradition, enhancing the town’s already picturesque scenery.
The tradition of hanging baskets in Aspen traces its roots back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, a period marked by the town’s burgeoning tourism industry driven by skiing enthusiasts. Recognizing the need to enhance the downtown aesthetic, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association initiated a program in 1970 to adorn the streets with floral displays. Supported fervently by local businesses and residents, the initiative aimed to foster a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
Since its inception, the tradition has flourished. Each spring, a collaborative effort between volunteers and city workers sees hundreds of baskets planted and hung across downtown Aspen, perpetuating the town’s floral legacy.
Beyond the ubiquitous hanging baskets, Aspen boasts a diverse tapestry of summer flowers gracing parks, gardens, and private residences. From delicate wildflowers adorning hiking trails to elaborate public square displays, the town offers botanical delights at every turn.
At the John Denver Sanctuary, native plants thrive amidst tranquil streams, while the Aspen Institute’s meticulously landscaped grounds provide a sensory feast for visitors. Jillian Kops of Mountain Greenery in Basalt notes, “The cool Aspen night temperatures and glorious sunny days are a perfect recipe for explosive blooms to enjoy all summer long.”
Among Aspen’s standout floral exhibits is The Little Nell’s Living Wall, curated by landscape designer Arabella Beavers-Kaplansky. Comprising vibrant hues set against the backdrop of the Rockies, this living flower wall is a unique outdoor display that evolves annually, attracting pollinators crucial to local ecosystems.
“Each year, we create a different design, with the wall structure housing 998 individually placed plants,” explains Beavers-Kaplansky. The system, she notes, is not only self-watering but also designed for water conservation.
Beyond aesthetics, Aspen’s summer blooms play a vital role in supporting local wildlife, serving as essential food sources for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. By nurturing gardens with native plants, Aspen residents and businesses contribute to the region’s biodiversity, sustaining the natural splendor of the Rockies.
In a world often rushing past, Aspen’s floral exhibits offer a moment of tranquility, encouraging visitors to pause, breathe deeply, and savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether admiring the intricate patterns of wildflowers or reveling in the fragrance of roses, Aspen’s natural beauty promises magic at every turn, ensuring that wonder is always within reach amidst the Rockies’ timeless allure.
