

The Garden Club of Decatur was founded by Mrs. Henry D. Spencer on October 6,1925. The organization meeting was held in the Art Institute, which backed the Club, and 35 of the 40 men and women present signed on as charter members. Women from the Garden Club of the Springfield Art Institute were at the meeting to assist with
the organization.
James Millikin home was made the headquarters for the Garden Club of Decatur. Mr. Millikin was interested in gardening and in horticulture in a way few had known about,and every tree planted on his property was planted under his direction.
The Garden Club of Decatur affiliated with: NGC., Inc., GCI..,Inc since 1928.
In 1989, an evening group was formed to accommodate those unable to attend daytime meetings.
Over the years the Garden Club continues the tradition of our Founder’s love of gardening, horticulture and flowers by the programs, field trips, flower shows,workshops presented to our membership. The added bonus is the wonderful fellowship we share.
We offer a variety of civic projects and committees which can be seen on our meeting and projects pages.


I pledge allegiance to the flag of the Garden Clubs of Illinois and to the principles for it stands - the beautification of our State, kept void of litter, the protection of all wildlife and the conservation of its natural resources for present and future generations. Mrs. A.J. Fremouw
The National Garden Club President encouraged clubs to participate in Golden Days Project, in which yellow daffodils would be planted in various cities across the country,. We committed to this project and extended it to youth in the Decatur area by working with four schools to let their students plant the bulbs in the fall of 2009. Below is the Pershing School Early Childhood Learning Center.
Oglesby Mansion is a Decatur and National landmark which the Garden Club of Decatur decorates for Christmas.
Flower Show on September 10, 2011 theme was Seasons of Life. Pictured are some of the design entries in the show as well as the horticulture.
HORTICULTURE --- by MARIA CHRISTIAN
Our mild winters have given us early Spring beauty. Slowly remove mulch, taking too much off too soon may harm plants since hard freezes are still possible; but probably not this year. Apply slow- release fertilizer to plants and perennials. Walking on wet soil will cause it to compact. Most perennials bloom for 2 to 4 weeks. When adding new perennials to extend time, choose a mix of early, mid and late varieties,. Clean out water features and fountains. Make sure pumps and lights are working properly. Be sure your lawn mower is ready for the growing season by cleaning the air filter and replacing spark plug. Many new varieties are available this Spring. Enjoy using lots of pansies to keep you smiling.
Spring Cleaning at the Gazebo