By: Susanna Hadley

Over the last few years, especially since joining the Master Gardeners of Davidson County, my fascination with the diversity of gardens across cities, states, and counties has grown. Traveling has provided me with a unique opportunity to explore varied landscapes, understand communities better, and add many new destinations to my bucket list. In this article, I want to share my experiences visiting extraordinary locations and exhibits that left a mark on my journeys, connecting me to the places and people I discovered along the way.

Aburi Botanical Garden, Ghana:

Nestled at the base of the Aburi Mountains in Ghana lies the Aburi Botanical Garden. During my recent visit to Ghana, West Africa, I felt compelled to explore this enchanting oasis. The long royal palm tree walk that greets visitors into the park immediately captivated me. Covering approximately 160 acres, the garden boasts a diverse collection of trees and plants thriving in the cooler climate afforded by the higher altitude compared to neighboring capital, Accra. Although my exploration was just the beginning (I didn’t have time to cover the full 160 acres!), I eagerly anticipate returning next year for a guided tour and perhaps experiencing one of the many festivals hosted in the gardens.

Orchids: Amazing Adaptations at Smithsonian Gardens, Washington DC:

In February, I visited the Smithsonian Gardens in Washington DC. The "Future of Orchids: Conservation and Collaboration" exhibit was a testament to the intricate beauty and resilience of these fascinating plants. Featuring over 350 live orchids alongside captivating artworks by artist Phaan Howng, the exhibit provided both amazing sights and valuable insights into orchid conservation efforts. Joy Columbus, Director of the Smithsonian Gardens, described the exhibit as a rare opportunity to explore the "weird and wild world of orchids." Not only was this a fun way to spend time with my friends and family, but it also deepened my understanding of the importance of addressing challenges such as climate change and habitat preservation.

Chelsea Flower Show, London, England:

While I haven't had the chance to attend personally, I had the pleasure of living vicariously through my sister's experience at the Chelsea Flower Show. Regarded as the pinnacle of flower and gardening events, the show showcases breathtaking landscapes and innovative designs that epitomize horticultural excellence. My sister was awestruck by the skill and creativity on display. I asked her to describe her experience, and she shared, “The most impressive part of the show was the creation of these stunning gardens in just a few weeks. They built incredible landscapes that looked like they'd been established for years. The skill, design, and effort required were truly amazing. I also loved how many gardens embraced sustainability and a natural, organic feel that really seemed to resonate with everyone.”

In closing, I'm reminded of the joy and inspiration that nature and gardening offer across our country and the world. Whether exploring botanical gardens abroad or nurturing our own green spaces at home, it’s always a great opportunity to live in the moment and explore new spaces. I hope we all can draw inspiration from our travels, whether they are in our own Davidson County gardens or gardens thousands of miles away.