GARDEN CENTER • ARBORETUM • BOTANIC GARDENS
Holiday Hours : July 3 open 8-5, July 4th CLOSED, July 5th noon-5
Welcome!
Hornbaker Gardens, Inc. is a family owned and operated nursery located five miles southeast of Princeton, Illinois. Our large collections of hostas, daylilies, trees and shrubs, grasses, aquatics, annuals, and other perennials draw plant enthusiasts from not only the Midwest, but from all across the country.
WE DELIVER AND PLANT
Children's Garden
The children’s garden area was created in memory of our beloved Kathy Hornbaker. It consists of a large, sloped, grassy play area where kids can be kids.
Garden Tours
Every year we host many garden clubs and tour groups. We are happy to greet your group upon arrival and provide a history and overview of Hornbaker Gardens.
Hornbaker Highlights
How to Choose the Right Hosta for Your Shade Garden
If you have a shady spot in your yard that has stumped you for years, hostas are probably the answer you have been overlooking for your garden. They are one of the most reliable, low maintenance perennials for shade, and once you understand the basic categories, picking the right one for your space gets a lot easier.
Surviving the July Heat: What Actually Needs Watering Right Now
By the time July rolls around, the questions we get start to shift. It is not “what should I plant” anymore, it is “is my garden going to make it.” Fair question. Heat and humidity in Illinois can be brutal on anything that went into the ground this spring, and even established plants can start showing stress when the temperatures sit in the 90s for days in a row.Here is the part that surprises people: not everything in your yard needs the same amount of attention right now.
Rooted in Place: Native Perennials, Trees & Shrubs for Illinois Gardens
We’re passionate about offering plants that support local ecosystems, thrive in our region, and provide long‑lasting beauty. Last year we introduced a new collection of native perennials as well as more natives in our tree & shrub department. For 2026, we’re excited to expand on those collections even further, adding many more native species to the lineup. Below is a brief look at a sampling of standout plants you’ll find in our Native to Illinois collection at hornbakergardens.com.
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Annual Artisan Market
Join us in our beautiful country setting for a day filled with 30+ fine artists, craft beer, delicious home baked items, live music, wine tasting, fresh-picked local produce, local lunch fare, ice cream and more. Saturday, September 19, 2026! Mark your calendars now and plan to spend a beautiful, fall day in the country. Free Admission.
Gift Certificates Available
The perfect gift for any gardener
