Spring has finally sprung, bringing the seasonal reopening of lovely Ladew Topiary Gardens. Based in Monkton, Maryland, the lush, lavish gardens comprising this historic estate may well be the closest example we residents of the Mid-Atlantic have to the Garden of Eden.
Spread out across an impressive 22 acres, Ladew’s scenic property boasts an array of versatile callouts. Highlights include the historic Manor House, native Butterfly House exhibit, a mile-long Nature Walk trail, and those famed topiaries of such renown. There’s even an onsite café serving up an abundance of enticing offerings to keep you fueled for your grand garden strolling.
Your adventure begins in the gift shop. This is where you purchase tickets, get acquainted with the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and check out all the inspiring merch and novelties you’ll want to revisit before you head out.
But again, it is the presentation of all those breathtaking displays of various themed gardens and hundreds of award-winning topiaries that stand out as the ultimate crowning attractions. Over 20 distinct gardens are highlighted, featuring unique anchoring motifs cleverly incorporated through mixed media. These range from fruits, berries, and herbs to manicured floral, wildflowers, and unbridled naturalistic artistry. There are also elegant and elaborate water gardens containing novelty plants that do double service by providing a home base for abundant aquatic wildlife. Not to be overlooked are the sculpted displays that take on specific themes and are accompanied by statues and other fine examples of meticulous craftsmanship.
The aforementioned Manor House is the perfect example of mastery and architectural skill. The stately 1930s-era house, which once served as an elegant countryside retreat for owner Harvey S. Ladew, was the awe-inspiring finished product of a successful transformation of a preexisting farmhouse from the late 1700s/early 1800s. While the estate was the brainchild of Ladew himself, it was through the assistance of architect James W. O’Connor and interior decorators Billy Baldwin, Jean Levy, and Ruby Ross Wood that this idyllic dream house was made into a reality.
Visitors take note. While the Manor House can be toured at specified times during hours of operation, it is not open and available to the public as part of the package of attractions included with regular admission.
Another onsite attraction with varying hours of operation is the Butterfly House. Offered via 20-minute docent-led tours, the Butterfly House is only available during the summer months, Thursdays through Mondays, and on “Twilight Tuesdays.” The opening date for this year is slated for July 5 and will run through September 26.
While the multiple attractions onsite at Ladew offer great versatility to visitors of varying interests, my personal favorite is still the Nature Walk. Established in 1999, the area comprising this mile-long stretch was originally used as a pasture and steeplechase course. Located in the Piedmont Plateau and a part of the Gunpowder watershed of the Chesapeake Bay, it offers visitors the chance to trek through wetland forests and experience wildlife firsthand, all while navigating a safe boardwalk course marked with signage and other secure measures in place.
There is just so much to experience and explore at Ladew Topiary Gardens. Regular seasonal operations run from April 1 through October 31. Additionally, you will find special events and engagements presented at other times throughout the year as well.
Ladew Topiary Gardens is located at 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, Maryland. To learn more, visit the website at www.ladewgardens.com.
By: LC Hermoza
Images Courtesy of Ladew Topiary Gardens