Each spring, The University of Alabama transforms into a stunning showcase of color with fresh blooms, greenery and meticulously manicured lawns. The seamless integration of natural beauty into all facets of the campus can make it easy to forget its year-round effort – but it takes an expert team to maintain every flower bed, tree and lawn. The University’s Grounds Department is devoted to making the campus a place of pride for students, alumni and visitors.

The Team Behind the Beauty

Maintaining UA’s 1,400-acre campus is no small feat. The University’s Grounds Department—nearly 100 strong—is divided into 12 maintenance zones, and includes specialized teams for flowers, chemicals and irrigation. Their work ensures the entire campus, from busy walkways to quiet green spaces, looks its best year-round.

Horticulturist Chrissy Plowman leads a small crew of five who focus solely on the University’s flowers. They handle everything from cultivating and planting to pruning vibrant annuals and perennials that fill beds, containers and hanging baskets across campus.

“We start pruning very hard and cleaning up beds in November and December to get ready to plant what will eventually bloom in the spring,” says Kim Byram, director of the Grounds Department. “We planted pansies and tulips in November, and the tulips have already bloomed. Those are everyone’s favorite.” Planning starts as early as November with tulips and pansies, ensuring that when spring arrives, the campus bursts into life.

An Iconic Contribution

One of the most iconic symbols of UA’s landscape is the beloved elephant topiary in front of the Rose Administration Building. UA’s assistant vice president of facilities and grounds traveled to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, to find out how they create their topiaries of characters like Mickey Mouse.

Carefully sculpted and mounted on a wheeled platform, the life-size animal was made from creeping fig and weighs an impressive 2,000 pounds. The topiary is moved and stored during harsh weather to reduce wear and preserve its unique shape. The elephant not only showcases the team’s skill but also embodies the spirit and tradition of the Crimson Tide.

Snap-Worthy Spots on Campus

Looking for an Instagram-worthy location on campus? The Grounds Department makes the search easy, as UA’s campus offers picture-perfect views in every direction. High-traffic areas include the President’s Mansion, the Walk of Champions and University Boulevard. These areas are maintained with special attention to detail and offer some of the most beloved backdrops for photos, particularly with springtime blooms. Other go-to locations include Denny Chimes, the Gorgas House lawn and the quad’s tree-lined paths.

Each of these locations offers seemingly effortless scenery, but The University of Alabama’s spring landscape is, truthfully, the result of year-round planning and dedicated maintenance by a highly skilled grounds team. With strategic planting, sustainable practices, and attention to high-traffic areas and landmarks, the campus remains a place for every student, faculty member and visitor to feel like they’re home.

Schedule a tour of The University of Alabama’s stunning campus this spring. View the calendar and select a date to register here.