Renowned Horticulturalist to Prune at Japanese Garden at Terrace Park

The Sioux Falls Japanese Garden at Terrace Park welcomes back horticulturist and pruning expert Ben Chu to prune the gardens from Wednesday, June 21, through Saturday, June 24, 2023. The public is welcome to watch Chu complete the annual pruning.  

Chu comes from Missouri Botanical Gardens and has shared his expertise and guidance, nurturing the growth and development of the Sioux Falls Japanese Gardens for years.  

"We are more than fortunate to have Ben Chu as our mentor for over 30 years," said Don Kearney, Director of Parks & Recreation. “His knowledge and passion for horticulture have been instrumental in shaping the garden into the serene haven it is today. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Ben’s ongoing commitment and the exciting upgrades that lie ahead.”

The Sioux Falls Japanese Gardens at Terrace Park is a place of enduring beauty and restoration, honoring the vision of Joseph Maddox, a former Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation caretaker. Initially established in 1928, the gardens endured hardships and neglect but were rejuvenated by the dedicated efforts of the Shoto Teien Japanese Garden committee and the expertise of Chu.  

Today, the gardens stand as a symbol of resilience, providing visitors with a tranquil and culturally rich experience with its exotic flowers, entrance arbor, cherry blossom trees, pagodas, and lanterns near Covell Lake. Terrace Park is located at 707 North Grange Avenue.