Garvan Woodland Gardens

Before my pictures get lost in the black hole of Photo Feed Land—yes that’s a place I can’t begin to understand or organize—I thought I’d post a few shots from our recent visit to Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Here’s a fun fact: members of the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks enjoy the perk of reciprocal membership with over 300 gardens across North America. It’s pretty satisfying to show our membership card and stroll right on through the gates without paying admission.

As an aside, I truly would like to visit all 320 gardens. John and I have only been to about ten (in Arkansas, Texas, and Colorado). This should keep our bucket list full for all our livelong days.

Anyway, with the holidays quickly approaching, I highly recommend a membership to the botanical garden closest to your home. Botanical gardens have become destinations for not only flowers and nature but also musical entertainment and special events throughout the year. Another perk!

Garvan Woodland Gardens History

Verna Cook Garvan, a resident of Malvern and self-taught gardener, began gardening on this land in 1956. She laid out the pathways and selected plants and shrubs, many of which are rare. At the time of her death in the early 1990s, she bequeathed her incredible garden property to the University of Arkansas Foundation. Her desire was to preserve the environment while bringing joy and peace to Arkansans.

Until I visited, I had no idea that Graven Woodland Gardens is an independent department of the University’s Fay Jones School of Architecture. It’s no wonder the design is so incredible.

Joy and Peace—Absolutely.

Moody Blues

Weeping Maple

Water, Water Everywhere

Serenity Now

Would you like some moss with your fungi?

 

Gaillardia Zinger!

 

I Know Where the Tooth Fairy Lives

Pink Paragon

 

Although we visited on a hot and humid day, we felt quite comfortable beneath the expansive garden canopy. We can thank Mrs. Garvan for the incredible trees that provide shade and woodland habitat. After the property was clear cut in the 1920s, she purchased the property and never allowed the trees to be cut down again.

Yay for tree huggers.

I hope to return in October to see the fall color. And again for the festive holiday lights. They are something to see!

Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.

P.S. Click HERE to visit Denver Botanic Gardens with me!