Potawatomi Conservatories facts for kids

The Potawatomi Conservatories are a wonderful place in South Bend, Indiana. They are also called the South Bend Conservatories. This special spot has three indoor conservatories and botanical gardens. Think of them as giant greenhouses filled with amazing plants! The three main areas are: The Ella Morris Conservatory, the Muessel-Ellison Botanical Conservatory, and the Muessel-Ellison Desert Dome.

A Look Back: History of the Conservatories

The very first part of the conservatories, the Potawatomi Greenhouse, was built in the 1920s. A company called Lord & Burnham built it. It had eight smaller greenhouses. These were used to grow plants for South Bend's city parks. They also grew plants for flower shows in the area.

Later, in the 1960s, the Ella Morris Conservatory and the Muessel-Ellison Botanical Conservatory were built. The Desert Dome was added in 1973. Today, these conservatories are part of a bigger area called Potawatomi Park. This park also includes the Potawatomi Zoo.

Saving the Conservatories: Renovations

Around 2006, the Conservatories faced a big problem. They were almost closed because of money issues. It cost a lot to heat the buildings. Also, the government had less money to give.

To help, a group called the Botanical Society of South Bend took over. They started managing the conservatories. In 2011, the buildings closed for a big update. These renovations cost about $1.2 million.

During this time, many things were fixed. The heating, water pipes, and electrical systems were all updated. Walls were repaired, and new paint, windows, and floors were added. They also made the bathrooms easier for everyone to use. This included people with disabilities. A new room for potting plants was added. A mechanical room was also built. These new areas added 1,600 square feet to the conservatories. A new parking lot, sidewalk, and signs were also put in. The conservatories reopened in May 2012, looking better than ever!

Exploring the Gardens: What You'll See

Each part of the Potawatomi Conservatories offers a different plant adventure.

Muessel-Ellison Botanical Conservatory

This conservatory is home to plants from all over the world. Many of these are introduced species. This means they are plants that were brought here from other places. You might see beautiful birds of paradise flowers here. You can also find colorful bougainvillea plants.

Ella Morris Conservatory

The Ella Morris Conservatory focuses on plants that love warm weather. These are called tropical and subtropical plants. Imagine walking through a lush, green jungle!

Muessel-Ellison Desert Dome

Step into the Desert Dome, and you'll feel like you're in a dry, sunny desert. This area is filled with cacti and succulent plants. These plants are experts at storing water. Many of them come from the Sonoran Desert. You might even spot a unique monkey puzzle tree here!