We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful and lush region! From rolling hills to sandy beaches, we have boundless opportunities to get outdoors. Even right in our own backyards, we have access to gorgeous gardens that are abundant with native species and exotic plants and flowers. This summer, be sure to plan a trip to one (or all!) of our regional gardens.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY ARBORETUM – 6206 Oleander Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403
The New Hanover County Arboretum in Wilmington, NC, is an oasis in the middle of town. Stepping through the front gates, you enter into a seven-acre “horticultural laboratory” with gardens dedicated to demonstrating proper horticultural techniques, design aesthetic, and environmental stewardship. You’ll be greeted by a large metal dragon, koi fish, and lily pads in the water garden.
Follow the curving path that leads to a gorgeous Japanese garden with a traditional teahouse and winding stream, then wander through the rose garden, the certified wildlife habitat, children’s garden, and the pollinator habitat. One of our favorite exhibits is the grass display—various species of grasses are planted in patches next to one another, allowing you to walk barefoot through each different type of grass and learn about the intricate differences…a valuable lesson if you’re considering replanting your yard! arboretum.nhcgov.com
THE NORTH CAROLINA ARBORETUM – 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806
When you’re ready for a full day of exploring, head to the North Carolina Arboretum. More than 65 acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails await you. The permanent garden exhibits include the quilt garden, heritage garden, stream garden, forest meadow, and the plants of promise garden—a collection of plants derived from the region’s native flora that are planted and allowed to spread freely. From May to November, you can enjoy the Arboretum’s world renowned bonsai exhibition garden, which can host up to 50 bonsai specimens at a time. ncarboretum.org
HAHN HORTICULTURE GARDEN – 200 Garden Ln., Virginia Tech Campus, Blacksburg, VA 24061
Located on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, VA, sits the lovely Hahn Horticulture Garden, comprised of multiple gardens. Built and maintained by students and staff, hundreds of species of herbaceous plants from around the world can be found in the various gardens, spanning nearly six acres. The living laboratory offers hands-on opportunities for students and educational programs for members of the community. Sustainable horticulture and environmental principles are paramount. All of the branches, leaves, and debris are reused as mulch or composted. Herbicides are minimally used, and there is no use of insecticides or fungicides. hort.vt.edu Photo Credit: Robert McDuffie
MONTICELLO – 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy., Charlottesville, VA 22902
The historic gardens at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello showcase the passion for gardening that T.J. possessed. The estate was a botanic laboratory of plants from around the world where Jefferson grew more than 300 vegetable varieties and 170 varieties of fruit. The gardens include the West Lawn, 20 oval beds, and a winding flower border. Today, you can tour the lavish grounds and even purchase heritage and native plants from the on-site nursery. Admission is free with the “Locals Discount”—bring one paying adult visitor, and your admittance is free. Regular admittance is $25. monticello.org
CHATHAM MANOR – 120 Chatham Ln., Fredericksburg, VA 22405
The Chatham Gardens at Chatham Manor in Fredericksburg, VA, serve as a beautiful journey back in time. During the Battle of Fredericksburg, the house was used as Union headquarters and a field hospital. The home, outbuildings, and surrounding gardens are now maintained by the National Parks Service, and serve as the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park headquarters. The gardens are especially lovely in the springtime when the azaleas are in full bloom. Stroll through the garden, enjoying the statues and the fish pond before heading inside to tour the impressive historic manor. nps.gov/frsp/learn/historyculture/chatham.htm
SEE A FLOWER OR PLANT YOU LOVE? Ask a friendly gardener on staff if the species would work in the climate of your home garden, and if so, tips for getting started!
We shared this story with you in our Spring/Summer 2017 Issue of NEST Magazine. To view the full issue, click here