by Jackie Edwards

Flourishing amidst the global stage, the U.S. proudly stands in the top three gardening nations. Over half of its population, 55%, are committed green thumbs crafting lovely spaces, while 43% cultivate food in their backyards. From the widespread presence of over 29,000 community gardens to more than a thousand botanical havens, America’s love for gardening is lettered across its lands. Tracing roots back to the 1600s, this affection for flora continues to bloom through our history, synergizing local practices and artistic inspirations.

Monticello: A Jefferson Legacy

Thomas Jefferson is perhaps best known as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, a foundational document expressing liberty and self-determination principles. As the third President of the United States from 1801-1809, he made significant contributions during his tenure, including the Louisiana Purchase, which greatly expanded the territory of the United States. The US acquired a vast territory from France, effectively doubling the size of the country.  In addition, he was also the founder of the University of Virginia and designed the campus and its curriculum. Today, it remains one of the premier institutions of higher learning in the US.

Jefferson was known, too, as an advocate for religious freedom and the principle of the separation of church and state.  He played an important role in promoting agriculture and American agricultural practices. In fact, his agricultural experiments at Monticello, including crop rotation and cultivation of new crops, influenced American farming.

The Gardens at Monticello are located at Thomas Jefferson’s home in Monticello, Charlottesville, Virginia. It was planned in the early 1770s when he inherited the property from his father. Over the years, Jefferson developed a comprehensive garden plan incorporating both ornamental and productive elements. Influenced heavily by European garden designs, the layout and features at Monticello are notable for their formal and geometric plan, terraced levels, brick walkways, and meticulously designed beds. A vegetable garden, fruit orchards, flower beds, and ornamental trees are cleverly blended into the overall scheme, as well as the employment of gardening technique experiments and crop varieties. As an avid plant collector, Jefferson introduced many unusual species to America, including crops like tomatoes and peppers, diversifying agriculture. He recognized the therapeutic value of gardens, saying once, ‘No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, and no culture comparable to that of the garden.’ The design of Monticello and its gardens encouraged Jefferson to relax and contemplate while enjoying magnificent views.

The Oldest Surviving Botanic Garden

Bartram’s Garden holds a special place in American garden history because it is often regarded as the oldest existing botanic garden in North America. It was established in 1728 by John Bartram, a self-taught botanist, explorer, and plant collector. His garden was crucial in the early study and cultivation of American plants. Along with his son William, Bartram collected and cataloged numerous plant species native to America. Many of these plants were also introduced to European horticulture. John Bartram also communicated with leading scientists and botanists, including Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy whose detailed descriptions and drawings of plants were instrumental in advancing the understanding of North American flora.

The botanic garden has a rich collection of native American plants, some of which may no longer exist in the wild due to habitat loss, affirming the importance of the place as a resource for the preservation of local flora. Beyond its botanical significance, the garden was also a hub of scientific and horticultural exploration. Bartram was appointed the ‘Royal Botanist’ by King George III. Today, Bartram’s Garden is an educational and cultural destination offering educational programs, tours, and events that promote an understanding and appreciation of plants, nature, and history. The garden is also involved in various environmental and conservation initiatives, such as the restoration of native habitats along the Schuylkill River and the promotion of sustainable garden practices.

Mount Vernon Estate

Located in Virginia along the Potomac River, the Mount Vernon estate was the home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Its construction and development took place over several decades, including expansion and renovation of the existing house. Wings were added to the house, creating the iconic symmetrical appearance that is now associated with Mount Vernon. Numerous outbuildings on the estate were built, including a kitchen, slave quarters, barns, stables, and a greenhouse essential for the plantation operation.

Much of the 8,000 acres of land was used for farming, including tobacco cultivation. A portion of it was also devoted to gardens and landscaping. Washington was deeply interested in horticulture and landscaping. He designed and cultivated gardens, orchards, and a botanical garden. These gardens featured various plants, with Washington even conducting experiments on crop rotation and agricultural practices. The botanical garden features a carefully curated collection of plants worldwide, including ornamental flowers, herbs, and trees. Although the gardens fell into disrepair after Washington died in 1799, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association acquired and preserved the estate in 1858. Today, the gardens remain well-maintained and restored to reflect their historical appearance. They are a testament not only to Washington’s dedication to both aesthetics and practicality but also to his vision and the horticultural practices of the 18th century.

Historical gardens in America hold significant importance for several reasons. They are a tangible link to America’s past, providing a window into the cultural and historical heritage of the country. They serve as valuable educational resources, preserve biodiversity, and offer cultural and recreational spaces.