Nestled in the suburbs of Kennesaw is a private garden & historic home that is an OTP hidden treasure. This private house that was built 150 years ago is now open to the public.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens is 16 serene acres with over 3,000 species of plants, several rare in American gardens. United by woodland paths, the gardens consist of separate groupings with their own unique qualities. These include the Bonsai Exhibit, Palladino Camellia Garden, tea house and waterfall area, Rose Garden, and Conifer Display.
I had family in town visiting, so we decided to scoop out the gardens! We all loved the Bonsai collection (literally means tree grown in a tray) and could have looked at them all day. It is fascinating to me how these trees are trimmed and develop with the constant care and attention to detail.
One of their most famous Bonsai is a several-hundred-year-old Pond Cypress. This collection is being revitalized and will be re-opening 2015, so call to confirm if it is open or not yet. I saw it in the fall of 2014 and was impressed then, so can’t wait to see the new unveil!
Of course, we had to stop and smell the roses at the rose garden. I still couldn’t decide which smell I liked best, they were all so beautiful with their different colors, varieties and scents.
One of the unique features is their children’s Gather & Grow play area and garden. On our visit, a horticulturist was working and gave us all the scoop on the vegetation, plants and the season of growing in that garden.
If you are novice gardener, here are some great Q & A questions with their master gardeners. And the kids will love the big bubble wands!
This garden isn’t as big at Gibbs Gardens, but has its own unique personality with the many unique sculptures throughout the acres. The kid’s area is an added bonus.
Follow their Facebook page for the latest information. Pack a lunch and grab a seat in this beautiful OTP destination.
While in Kennesaw, check out Tom+Chee.
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