Helen Standard
Just a short walk north of the Baltimore riots, you will find the Bokolic community of Monton, Maryland. Horse farms and vast rural areas, quiet areas are also home to what the American Garden Club has considered to be “the most beautiful garden in the United States.” Launched in 1971, the Ladew Topiary Gardens is a living tribute to the love and care of a person. Here, take a look at Southern Treasures celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Helen Norman
In 1929, Harvey Smith Ladew, a native of New York and an outdoor enthusiast, bought 250 acres[250 ha]of Maryland farmland. During his travels to Europe, he was influenced by the magnificent gardens he visited in England, and he later set out to reconsider. Converting sculptures, water features, and more than a hundred acres[22 ha]to artificial gardens. He welcomes visitors to the gardens for years. In 1971, Ladew officially opened a non-profit organization to protect and preserve his historic home and to ensure that the gardens would continue to be fun and exciting. He no longer had to care for them. He died five years later, but his legacy remains.
Helen Norman
“Over the past year and a half, we have learned how important places like Ladaw are to our communities,” said Emily Emerick, executive director of horticulture. “Many beautiful gardens have been created and destroyed. We are very fortunate to be working today with Ladew, a non-profit organization. Tens of thousands of people come every year for a walk in the gardens, to visit the house, to walk in nature, and to visit. Participate in Butterfly House and one of the many programs or events.
Helen Norman
As part of the annual celebration, the gardens are hosting Anne Blackwell Thompson as an artist in his home – Lada’s passion for painting and sculpture. From October 9 to October 22, visitors will be able to see their own collection of plants from the gardens.
“As a naturalist with a special interest in orchards and public gardens, I try to collect a collection of plant materials and embrace the richness of nature,” said Thompson. My hope is that each sample is connected to our natural world. Wildflowers and nature walks were my refuge during the outbreak, and the tranquility of the Ladew Topiary Gardens was a peaceful and magical escape.
The garden will close on October 31, so make sure you plan your visit soon.
See – Atlanta Botanical Garden is the only downtown oasis you should visit