Longwood Gardens: Horticultural treasure close to home

Photos courtesy Christopher Field

If gardeners were asked to create heaven, the result might be Longwood Gardens. As one of the world's premier botanical gardens, Longwood deserves some extreme descriptive adjectives: breathtaking, impeccable, opulent, and majestic all paint part of the picture.

Pittsburghers with an interest in plants, history or nature can delight in the proximity of this great American treasure. Located near Kennett Square, PA, Longwood is about 270 miles from Pittsburgh which Mapquest calculates as a trip of around 5 hours. At 1050 acres, a tour of Longwood requires at least the entire day, but many people will want to make a mini-vacation of it and devote two or more days.

Like any garden, prime areas of interest at Longwood Gardens change with the seasons, but beyond natural high points, the concerts, fireworks shows, fountain shows, musical theater, holiday displays and other attractions merit repeat visits. Just as one brief tour can't reveal all it has to offer, one mention in the Pittsburgh Garden Scene Examiner column can't describe this horticultural treasure trove, so look for upcoming articles detailing more about Longwood Gardens

Pierre S. du Pont, heir to the chemical company fortune, was the prime force behind creating Longwood. When he purchased the property from a Quaker family named Peirce in 1906, the land already boasted of a wonderful arboretum with a 100 year history, and one of the finest tree collections in America. The desire to preserve the trees stoked du Pont's interest in acquiring the land, but many other influences added to the eventual design. His fortune allowed him to foster performing arts, horticultural education programs, an interest in dramatic water fountains, fruit and vegetable greenhouse production, and homage to the magnificent historical gardens of Europe.

Details about admission, hours, directions and much more can be found on the Longwood Garden's website. Access for visitors with disabilities is excellent, and a large fleet of electric carts is available on a first-come, first served basis for a small rental fee.