Ohio Public Gardens and Gardener Events to Visit in 2009

Posted by Christine Eirschele Apr 15, 2009

I’ve put together a guide to gardens I have written about in the past year. Some have indoor, as well as outside gardens, that make them convenient during too rainy or too hot weather. Some gardens have a past for those of you who find it worthwhile to explore, even on vacation. Still yet, some have plants to sell as well as garden beds to look at. Best of all remember to bring your journals, writing tools and cameras to take away plant notes and ideas for gardening at home.

Franklin Park Conservatory

Franklin Park Conservatory has gardens outside in addition to the glasshouses that put on displays all year. There is a gift shop that sells plants when the weather is warm.

FPC has demonstration gardens outside so you should look for ideas on how to create compost, make a raised bed or participate in community gardening. The sign of a good botanical garden is that they want to educate us visitors, for instance look for identifying markers that tells you the names of the plants.

Kingwood Center in Mansfield

Like FPC, Kingwood Center has a past. Kingwood Center was once a private residence owned by people who valued plants. Today, you will find indoor plant collections, a horticultural library and ponds outside set among the many gardens.

Kingwood Center is open free to the public. Check out their roses in June and July for ideas, especially if you live in a similar climate.

Garden on Cedar Hill Road

If you love daylilies, Garden on Cedar Hill Road is the place for you. It is a private residence so check ahead before going but I recommend planning to visit in July, during the plant sale. Sharon Fitzpatrick hybridizes unusual form and spider daylilies. A primer, on unusual form and spider daylilies, is helpful to read before seeing these very special Hemerocallis.

Lilyfest in Hocking Hills

Another event in southern Ohio in July is Lilyfest. This outdoor art and music festival is held in the popular Hocking Hills area. The winding roads lead to private land created especially to take in music, flower gardens and arts and crafts. In July each year, artists gather to sell what they have created. Admission and parking are free to everyone.

Governor’s Residence in Bexley, Ohio is another place you can see plants and gardens. A tour of the mansion is possible, too. Tours of any size must be scheduled in advance.

Day trips are easy adventures us gardeners can take even during the height of gardening season. Now is the time to make plans. Check out these ideas and choose a couple fun places to see this summer.