If the ornamental wrought-iron gates aren’t enough of a clue that this is a historic garden, then the serpentine “broderie”-patterned annual beds that snake through the lawns might give it away. But what will clinch it for sure, are the 32 carpet beds surrounding the beautifully restored Victorian bandstand that sits at the heart of the Halifax Public Gardens, Canada's first … [Read more...] about A Canadian First! Halifax Public Gardens
Nova Scotia
Past and present at Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
When I first heard about Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, I was intrigued by its collections of heirloom roses, the Acadian marshes and the varieties of apple trees settlers once grew. But how would all this horticultural history be displayed, I wondered? Would I be greeted by costumed docents ready to fill me in on 17th-century life in Nova Scotia? What I discovered was a … [Read more...] about Past and present at Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
An appreciation of magnolias
Fifteen years ago, a small but passionate group of horticulturists, community members, nursery people and gardeners began to plant magnolias in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia. Their goals were beautification and education, as well as extending the tourist season. Over the years, many of the original members of the group dispersed, but the trees kept growing. Now in early … [Read more...] about An appreciation of magnolias