Finding Spring Inspiration...a few favorite spots.
It is no secret that most of my inspiration comes from botanical life. And, I am so lucky to live in an area teeming with gardens that are rich in variety, both native and cultivated. The Spring season around the Greater Philadelphia area is an exciting time. I thought I would share a few of my must-see sites of the season...and as a bonus, all of these locations are free to the public. I do recommend leaving a donation, when you can, to help support the organizations who care for these local treasures.
Always a pleasant surprise...PHS Meadowbrook Farm
Meadowbrook Farm is a seasonal garden open from mid-April to Mid-October. The gardens are serene, carefully cultivated and always stunning. Managed by the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society, the grounds serve as a prime example why our area is considered America's Garden Capital. With seasonal favorites, rich textures, water features and some whimsy, Meadowbrook Farm is at the top of my list for inspiration. I usually visit in early Spring and just before they close in the Fall.
History in Bloom...Scott Arboretum & Gardens
Blooming across the campus of Swarthmore College, Scott Arboretum & Gardens boasts year round flora, cultivated gardens and time-honored collections. I originally visited the campus in early Spring a few years ago to photograph the Magnolia Collection and then last year, stumbled upon the sweetest surprise...The Lilac Collection. Some of the shrubs date back to 1931 and were the first collection planted after the Arboretum's founding. Walking through the soft pastel blooms in mid-May is truly a full sensory experience. I still have so much to discover here and can't wait to visit in the next few weeks, and then again to catch the Lilacs. Capturing their Tree Peony Collection on film is a goal for this year. They are anticipated to be in peak bloom by mid-May.
Jenkins Arboretum: The hills are alive...with bright azaleas!
Nestled in the hills of Devon, Jenkins Arboretum is a hidden gem. Early Spring ephemerals precede the stunning displays of Azaleas and Rhododendrons over the grounds. The gardens boast a comfortable walking path, Adirondack chairs overlooking the lake and so much color! I won't lie...nothing is flat. But the views will distract you from the inclines. I am actually a fan of seeing the rhododendrons just before they actually bloom...the soft colors of the buds are quietly pretty. There is also a Visitors and Education Center on the grounds where they hold art exhibits, native plant sales and have the cutest gift shop. If you in the area, stop in for a walk...April and May are really something to see. It is my goal to visit once per month to catch all of the changes...maybe I will see you there.
More to Explore...
There are so many amazing sites to visit, it's hard to get around to all of them in one season. But, here are a few more on my list for the next few months. Having only visited during the late Summer and Fall, I am looking forward to seeing Stoneleigh in the Spring! Their collection of southern magnolias make me so happy.
An iconic location with access to some of the best our city has to offer, the Azalea Gardens and Sea Horse Fountain near Boat House Row never disappoint. Visiting this one spot offers a variety of opportunities from relaxing in the gardens to strolling through the museum to catching a glimpse of a few cherry blossoms that line Kelly Drive, not to mention the views of the parkway and boathouses.
I will also be spending a few hours volunteering at Bartram's Gardens next month. Having not visited this river front horticulture center before, it will be a great opportunity to discover something new...and hopefully, inspiration awaits!
Have a favorite spot you love to visit in the Spring? Let me know! And maybe we will meet in the gardens...
Happy Spring Everyone!
~ Beth
All images taken onsite, by me, Nikon D850, 24-70mm or Canon AE1, 28mm. Locations mentioned are typically not used for my portrait photography work as most do not allow commercial photography and those that do have separate regulations and may require permits or fees.