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Few species of plants have captivated people for centuries quite like orchids. Taking the world by storm, orchids of every size and color are now readily available and can be kept alive by even the most novice gardeners. Thanks to our archives and garden records, we know that Mrs. Mellon also was swept up in the orchid craze. Read on as our Horticultural Apprentice, Julie, dives into the history of orchids and their history at Oak Spring.
The beauty of the landscape can be a source of inspiration for artists, writers, scientists, anyone really. Bigger elements like mountains, rivers or the topography of the Bull Run and Blue Ridge mountains which border Oak Spring can even be incorporated into garden design. Read our latest blog post written by our Horticulture Apprentice, Claire, to learn about the history of a design philosophy which first originated in 17th century China and encourages us to look to the landscape.
Bunny Mellon once said “every rock has its purpose” and “every plant has its purpose.” Inspired by French styled parterres, the terraced gardens of Oak Spring are the perfect marriage of the two sentiments. The rock in this case is local fieldstone which was hand laid by Oak Spring’s stonemasons, and the plants are a smattering of herbs and other perennials which were first sprinkled out as seeds by Bunny during the garden's construction. Today, the cracks of the fieldstone spill out with plants that thrive under the beating summer sun. Learn more about the history of the terrace garden and some of the plants that thrive there in this blog.
Last month two of our Garden Team members entered the local Upperville Daffodil Show. It was a winding process to get there but each came away with multiple ribbons! In our newest blog post, read about the steps they took in preparation for the showing, the long history of daffodils in the US and get a few tips about how to put your best foot (or flower) forward.
It’s hard to believe but our Horticulture Apprentice, Thomas Bardoff has been with us for a full year! At the beginning of Thomas’s time, he shared his insights on our blog into the process of pruning one of the most recognizable pieces of Mrs. Mellon’s garden, the stepover cordons. Cordons, espaliers, and the ‘Mary Potter’ crabapple arbor were the embodiment of Bunny Mellon’s strong fascination with pruning techniques. Our Garden Team works diligently year-round to maintain these fixtures and in our newest blog post, Thomas shares his thoughts on a year at Oak Spring.
Cyclamen have existed since around the time of the philosopher Theophrastus. Read about how we are growing one of Mrs. Mellon’s favorite flowers to keep our garden and greenhouse lively during the colder months.
Ever wondered how our gardeners spend the winter months? It’s a lot of plant production! In this video, Assistant Head Gardener Allissa Montgomery demonstrates how to sow perennial seeds and shows us around Oak Spring’s production greenhouse.
Summer means long and sultry days, bushy and verdant landscapes, and lots of insect pests. Read our list of several plants that can help keep the (bad) bugs at bay.
In observance of World Soil Day, assistant gardener Jordan Long discusses the process of revitalizing the soil in Oak Spring’s potager garden, and why healthy soil matters.
Every garden and farm, no matter the size, has to deal with pests. Read about some primary trouble-makers at the Biocultural Conservation Farm, and how they are controlled through an Integrated Pest Management system.
Did you, like many Americans, plant your first garden this spring? Knowing the right time to harvest can result in tastier produce and a more manageable shelf life. Read this latest blogpost for tips on harvesting your summer garden!
Planting a woodland garden can be a great way to help control invasive species, as well as create a peaceful oasis on your property. Read our tips for getting starting in this latest blogpost.