by Step into a peaceful world of green at Cady’s Falls Botanical Gardens, where blooming, colorful plants create a magical experience. This special place is a living library of plants, offering a quiet escape for every garden lover. It’s a must-visit spot that will fill you with wonder and fresh ideas.
A Garden with a Story
Cady’s Falls Botanical Gardens is not just a collection of plants; it’s a passion project brought to life. Located in Morrisville, Vermont, the garden was started by Don and Lela Avery in the 1980s. They transformed their private land into a stunning showcase of hardy plants from around the world.
What makes this garden famous in the gardening world is its focus on species that can survive Vermont’s tough winters. It’s a testament to the beauty that can be achieved with thoughtful plant selection and natural landscaping. The Averys created a space that feels both wild and wonderfully designed, inspiring gardeners to see the potential in their own backyards.
What You’ll Find in the Garden
Prepare to be amazed by the sheer plant diversity at Cady’s Falls. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of perennials, trees, and shrubs, each with its own story. As you wander through the paths, you will discover a variety of themed areas.
The lush shade gardens are filled with hostas, ferns, and other plants that thrive in low light. You will also see beautiful perennial beds bursting with color and texture throughout the seasons. The garden is known for its collection of rare plants and hardy species that you might not see anywhere else in New England.
A key feature is the focus on native plants, which support local wildlife and are naturally suited to the environment. These plants are often pollinator-friendly, attracting bees, butterflies, and birds, making the garden buzz with life. The layout emphasizes natural landscaping, blending seamlessly with the surrounding Vermont scenery.
Best Time to Visit
While Cady’s Falls is beautiful from spring through fall, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see.
- Spring (May-June): This is when the garden awakens. You’ll see spring bulbs, flowering trees, and early perennials in full bloom. It’s a fresh and vibrant time to visit.
- Summer (July-August): The garden is at its peak with full, lush growth. The perennial beds are a riot of color, and the days are long and warm, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Fall (September-October): The foliage turns to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s a quieter, more reflective time to enjoy the garden’s structure and late-blooming flowers.
The garden is primarily a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The owners are often available to answer questions, sharing their deep knowledge and passion with visitors.
New England Botanical Gardens at a Glance
How does Cady’s Falls compare to other gardens in the region? Here’s a quick look.
|
Feature |
Cady’s Falls Botanical Gardens |
The Botanic Garden of Smith College |
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Location |
Morrisville, VT |
Northampton, MA |
Boothbay, ME |
|
Plant Variety |
Hardy perennials, rare species |
Diverse global collection, biomes |
Native plants, extensive coast |
|
Visitor Amenities |
Nursery, informal tours |
Conservatory, gift shop |
Cafe, gift shop, kids’ garden |
|
Entry Cost |
Donation-based |
Free |
Ticketed entry, varies by season |
|
Family-Friendliness |
Good for older children/adults |
Very family-friendly |
Excellent for all ages |
Gardening Inspiration for Your Home
A visit to Cady’s Falls will leave you brimming with ideas for your own garden. The focus on hardy and unique plants shows that you can create a stunning landscape even in a challenging climate.
You can bring a piece of this inspiration home by growing similar plants. For instance, the garden showcases how to use plants with interesting textures and shapes.
- For a striking, architectural look, consider a Soft Leaf Yucca Plant Care Guide.
- To add unique color and form, an Old Fashioned Smoke Bush can be a beautiful focal point.
- Inspired to grow your own food? Vegetables can be beautiful, too. Try planting some Roma II Bush Beans Growing Guide in your garden beds.
Useful Gardening Resources
Looking to expand your plant knowledge even further? These organizations provide fantastic information for gardeners of all levels.
- American Public Gardens Association: This group supports public gardens across North America and is a great resource for finding gardens to visit near you.
- Better Homes & Gardens Plant Encyclopedia: A user-friendly online tool to look up information on thousands of plants for your home and garden.
Your Turn to Explore
A trip to Cady’s Falls Botanical Gardens is an unforgettable experience that will connect you with the beauty of nature. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon, gather ideas, and find peace among the flowers. We encourage you to plan your visit and see this Vermont treasure for yourself.For more garden tours, DIY projects, and plant tips, visit our homepage.
