The Huntsville Botanical Garden in Huntsville, Alabama, is one of the many public gardens participating.Photo: publicgardens.org
Today is National Public Gardens Day and it serves as an opportunity for the public and the green industry to get out and appreciate the country’s many public gardens.
Established in 2009 by the American Public Gardens Association, along with their then partner Rain Bird, the day was created to drive local and national exposure to the importance of building gardens committed to community enrichment and environmental responsibility.
National Public Gardens Day is held on the Friday before Mother’s Day weekend each year and invites the community to explore their local green spaces and take advantage of the conservation education that public gardens provide.
Members of the American Public Gardens Association use the day to promote plant conservation, water conservation and the preservation of green spaces.
Visitors to public gardens, arboretums, zoos and historic gardens today can receive various discounts, promotions, demonstrations and other great incentives.
Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is one of the participating gardens and welcomes people to explore their grounds.
Others like Cheekwood Estate and Garden in Nashville, Tennessee, will be offering half-priced admission while some public gardens will offer discounts if visitors download a coupon off the American Public Gardens Association’s website for that specific garden.
While some may think that public gardens are just for the community, these locations are also treasure troves of inspiration for landscapers. Additionally, sometimes it can simply be a treat to enjoy a beautiful space that you know one of your peers in the industry helped create.
To find participating public gardens, or any public garden, check out this link to search for one within 150 miles of the set location. You can also refine your search for specific horticulture features such as sensory gardens, rose gardens and more.
