What is it?

Ghent began in the late 1800s as a carefully designed and manicured neighborhood. Silver maples and magnolia trees (like the one shown above) decorated the streets.  Though Ghent did not escape hard times during the depression and times of urban renewal in the 1960s, the landscape rermains one of its defining features as a high class neighborhood. Today, the maples and magnolias are replaced by water oaks and sycamore trees. One of the most visited places to view the attention to landscape in Ghent is from the walk along the waters of the Hague at Mowbray Arch - a walk which continues to emphasize Ghent's connection to the water.

Things to Ponder...

* What kinds of flowers or trees make up the landscape of your street or yard? Draw or photograph some of these plants. Can you describe how they smell, or how they make you feel?

* Why do you think silver maples and magnolia trees have been replaced by water oaks and sycamore trees in Ghent?

* Take Action: Ask a parent or guardian to help you plant a tree or flower in your yard.  If you enjoyed that activity, think about asking a parent or teacher to help you organize a community improvement program! You and your neighbors can plant trees and/or flowers in your neighborhood, or near your school.  How does planting trees and flowers add beauty to your home or neighborhood?

Learn More!

* Read more about magnolia trees here.

*  For information on choosing, planting, and caring for a tree in your backyard, visit this site: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard/treeptg.html