During my childhood, whenever my cousins came to Michigan, my aunt and mother would stroll through public gardens, with us youngsters tagging along. We would dawdle down paths, desperately needing to use the bathroom, and pleading with my mom to capture images of us sprinting in slow motion (was this just a ’90s thing?).
Now that I’ve reached a certain age, my primary desire is to explore gardens like these! This summer, Freddie and I visited the gardens of Edith Wharton in Lenox, Massachusetts. It felt like taking the deepest breath, and entry was complimentary.
Do you visit gardens? Any suggestions? New York City boasts two prominent botanical gardens, one located in Brooklyn and another in the Bronx. I’ve also come across some in Connecticut that welcome visitors, and naturally, many Cup of Jo readers have stunning gardens as well. (How wonderful would it be to arrange a CoJ tour of gardens around Brooklyn?! Would you participate?! My neighbor has a rooftop garden that feels like strolling towards the ocean in Maine.)
Here are a few captivating images…
Mothecombe House in Devon, England, photo by Ngoc Minh Ngo. The garden is accessible to the public — with tea and cake! — every Tuesday.
Ian McEwan’s garden in the Cotswolds, England, photo by Ricardo Labougle. I am quite fond of hedges.
Jasper Conran’s garden in Dorset, England, photo by Simon Upton. Can you picture walking here during golden hour?
Le Jardin Plume in Normandy, France, photo by Clare Foster. Those wave-shaped hedges are enchanting.
My friend Abbey’s garden in Connecticut. (Check out the before-and-after.)
And, of course, closest to my heart, my grandmother’s small terrace in Cornwall, England. She is dearly missed, but her garden flourishes.
Do you engage in gardening at all? Do you visit gardens? I’d be eager to know. Here’s Barbara Kingsolver’s Appalachian garden with Icelandic sheep and 40 varieties of tomato plants.
P.S. 14 readers showcase their gardens, and 10 additional readers display their gardens. Plus, John Derian’s stunning home and garden in Provincetown.
(Top photo by Ngoc Minh Ngo.)
**Discovering the Advantages and Pleasures of Visiting Gardens**
Visiting gardens presents numerous advantages and delights that go beyond merely enjoying nature. Whether it’s a quaint community garden or an expansive botanical haven, these green areas offer a refuge for relaxation, learning, and inspiration.
**1. Connection with Nature:**
Gardens provide a distinct chance to engage with nature. The vivid colors, varied plant species, and the soothing sounds of wildlife create an all-encompassing experience that can be both restorative and refreshing. This link is vital in our fast-paced existence, providing a natural retreat from the digital and metropolitan landscapes prevalent in contemporary life.
**2. Mental Health Benefits:**
Engaging with gardens has proven to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. The serene atmosphere of a garden encourages mindfulness and meditation, enabling visitors to clear their thoughts and concentrate on the here and now. Merely strolling through a garden can uplift one’s spirits and enhance overall mental wellness.
**3. Physical Health Advantages:**
Gardens also contribute to physical well-being. Walking along garden paths offers gentle exercise that boosts cardiovascular health and elevates physical activity levels. Additionally, gardening tasks such as planting or weeding provide a form of low-impact exercise that can enhance strength, flexibility, and endurance.
**4. Educational Opportunities:**
Gardens serve as living classrooms. They present learning opportunities for individuals of all ages to discover plant biology, ecology, and environmental conservation. Numerous gardens host workshops, tours, and events that instruct visitors on sustainable practices and the significance of biodiversity.
**5. Inspiration and Creativity:**
The charm and variety of gardens can ignite creativity and inspiration. Artists, writers, and photographers frequently draw inspiration from the natural patterns, hues, and textures present in gardens. The tranquil environment can also promote inventive thought and problem-solving.
**6. Social Interaction:**
Gardens function as communal spaces that foster social engagement. They act as venues for community events, gatherings, and celebrations. Visiting gardens with family or friends can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. Furthermore, community gardens encourage a sense of belonging and teamwork among participants.
**7. Environmental Awareness:**
Frequenting gardens can heighten awareness and appreciation for the environment. Gardens illustrate the importance of plant conservation and the role plants play in sustaining ecosystems. This consciousness can motivate individuals to adopt more sustainable habits in their daily routines.
**8. Aesthetic Enjoyment:**
Lastly, gardens offer pure aesthetic pleasure. The harmonious blend of colors, shapes, and scents creates a sensory delight. Whether it’s the gentle bloom of a rose or the majestic stature of an ancient tree, gardens provide limitless visual and sensory enjoyment.
In summary, visiting gardens is a fulfilling experience that enriches the mind, body, and spirit. The benefits of spending time in these green spaces are profound, offering a break from the stresses of daily life while nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world. Whether for relaxation, education, or inspiration, gardens are priceless assets that enhance our quality of life.
