Rock Garden

The Rocky Mountain Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society is a member-based horticultural organization centered on rock gardening in the Rocky Mountain region. The chapter presents rock gardening as more than a decorative niche, describing it as a form of artistic expression and a way to create natural beauty in miniature through the use of rocks, gravel, and carefully selected plants. Its focus is especially relevant in Colorado and the surrounding region, where alpine, xeric, crevice, and naturalistic rock garden styles reflect the diverse conditions found from high-elevation landscapes to dry, arid environments. That regional connection makes the chapter a meaningful resource for gardeners interested in resilient, low maintenance, and visually distinctive planting design.

The organization supports rock gardeners through events, education, mentoring, garden visits, travel opportunities, botanic hikes, and access to chapter resources. Its site highlights chapter events, a member portal, newsletter archives, and learning opportunities designed to help members build knowledge and confidence in rock gardening. It also emphasizes practical benefits such as access to plants and other resources, along with opportunities to volunteer and participate in a community of people who share an interest in alpine plants, xeric landscapes, wildflowers, and specialized garden techniques. The chapter also connects its work to native plant and wildflower conservation, showing that its role extends beyond gardening enjoyment into stewardship and plant appreciation.

For gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and landscape-minded homeowners, the Rocky Mountain Chapter of NARGS offers a place to deepen their understanding of specialized horticulture in a climate-appropriate way. Its combination of education, inspiration, and community helps people explore rock gardens that can use less soil and water while supporting a strong sense of place. In that way, it serves as a valuable gardening resource for those drawn to alpine and dryland plantings, creative garden design, and conservation-minded horticulture in the Rocky Mountain region.

Meets at:  Denver Botanic Gardens.

Meetings:  See website calendar.