Garden tourism is often experienced during the warmer months. Did you know that some of the most unique times in the garden happen when the garden is resting? It has been a bumpy start to a new year in many ways. Many people have logged on, tuned in, and are continually caught up in the erratic news cycle, we are missing out on healthier choices.
Going outside to see the garden or nature evolve is a life-changing experience. Watching buds swell, foliage burst from the ground, or experiencing how the light hits the garden can be memorable. These gifts from the garden might seem boring to some, however, allow me to elaborate.
On a recent walk at the United States Botanic Garden, I welcomed the distraction of the mid-winter garden. It was one of the first days I noticed the winter sky was lighter at 5:00 pm, meaning a new season was waiting in the wings. As I walked – no phone, no earbuds – around the garden, I could feel the energy of nature surrounding me. Even with the extremely low temperatures, I paused to see what was emerging from the earth. The evergreens popped throughout the landscape. A few shrubs showed exciting winter colors adding a range of colorful interest to an otherwise somber garden. There was also the opportunity to see how the weather affected plant material with the unexpected frigid temperatures. If I had been on my phone or in front of a TV, this experience would not have happened.
Garden Tourism is a great way to learn about plants, plant combinations, and other noteworthy garden ideas. Even while traveling, it is a great way to see something different and, most likely, inspirational. I recently hosted a small group experience at Longwood Gardens to see the Christmas lights. It was an opportunity to escape, if only for a few hours.
One of my neighbors who loves decorating for Christmas was impressed with the decorations. It was the perfect opportunity for her to see a different way to include nature in her holiday decor. As she lingered at the back of the group, I noticed the glimmer in her eyes as she closely inspected each design. I noticed an occasional smile as she took mental notes on recreating some of the ideas. To see her reaction melted my heart. Knowing my neighbor, I know she will use some of the ideas in her home and garden this Christmas.
While I stalk the United States Botanic Garden, other gardens offer a different type of escape. A few that are seasonally noteworthy are – Enid A. Haupt Garden, Katherine Dulin Folger Rose Garden, and The United States Arboretum. Each of these gardens offers a different experience and a lesson – if you observe. Perhaps notice when the roses are pruned, what bulbs are emerging, and figure out what is so fragrant at this time of the year. The Mary Livingston Ripley Garden, Dumbarton Oaks, and Tudor Place are beautiful places to watch the seasons evolve.
I consider Hillwood Estate Museum and Garden, a ladies’ garden. Each area reimagines how Marjorie Merriweather Post might have wanted if she was entertaining or enjoying her garden today. The friendship garden is one of my favorite places to pause, sit and breathe. This garden continually evolves with a gorgeous cutting garden and expanded programming drawing in gardeners, historians, or those seeking an opportunity to have a light lunch in a beautiful garden. It is one of my regular gardens to enjoy in any season.
Maryland also offers great garden tourism experiences such as Brookside Gardens, Glenstone, McCrillis Gardens, Cylburn Arboretum, Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Mount Washington Arboretum. I adore the intimacy found at the Rawlings Conservatory, as well as the convenience of Brookside. Glenstone offers a unique experience if you appreciate art in the garden and offers a terrific example of sustainable garden practices.
A terrific way to enjoy garden tourism in Virginia is to visit Greenspring Gardens, Lewis Ginter Gardens, or even Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. If you leave early, make time to enjoy downtown Richmond. The different areas offer great food, impactful art, historical displays, and great shopping. Exploring Richmond is a great idea for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
I encourage anyone reading this to put down the phone, turn off the TV, and create your unique garden tourism experience. Going outside in a garden elevates the spirit, provides a healthy distraction, and offers inspiration on what you can try in your green space.
Now to figure out which garden I will explore this weekend. I sense something beautiful is blooming in a garden near me.
Teri, Cottage in the Court
by 
Leave a Reply