When the jungle of your gardens in woodlands becomes a bit oppressive come July and August, it may be time to go on a quest to find and visit other woodlands devoted to gardens with stylish destinations and, of course, suitable plants. This is surely a great way to recharge your gardening passion, energy and enthusiasm.
So, I found myself visiting the Blomquist Native Garden with two keen gardening friends today. One of several beautifully developed areas in the Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, NC, this garden was a perfect elixir of verdant shade and watercourses tempering the heat of our southern months.
This is a garden of ample acreage and elevation changes dedicated to Dr. H. L. Blumquist's NC native botanical studies.
Themed but stylish details along the trail abound like the cedar hand rails, above, that guide you up and down timber staircases. Below, a tracery of cedar edging held at knee height with forked branches imparts a gentle hint to keep wandering feet from encroaching in carefully orchestrated but none the less fragile gardens.
Arched bridges carry you over a bubbling brook that travels through a side garden dedicated to supporting wildlife (below).
Native Bee-balm surrounds a tasteful informational sign.
My friends admiring the native Buckeye tree.
Welcome seating areas are sprinkled along the journey. Boulders and millstones enhance the plantings and experience.
A structure emulating a huge birdhouse (above) is tucked off the main path on a quiet ridge. It is appointed with beautifully crafted benches where you can sit quietly observing the many species of birds found in woodlands feeding at a multi-tiered feeder (below).
Above is the first waterfall in the Blumquist Garden. I watched Ed Steffek begin this garden over 30 years ago by clearing the forest floor leaving native Loblolly Pine and Southern Magnolia. After his untimely death Stephan Bloodworth stepped in to continue expertly caring for and expanding the collections as well as numerous detail gardens and artistic stone work. (Below)
So pump up your garden passion in the heat and toil of summer chores with a visit to a nearby garden. I guarantee it will revitalize your commitment to your gardens in woodlands.
And don't forget to put your feet up at the end of a good day's work to enjoy the fruits of your ardent labor.
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