New Jersey, the “Garden State,” is renowned not only for its extensive beaches and vibrant cities but also for its hidden gems of stunning botanical gardens. These verdant oases are not just biodiversity hotspots but also ideal destinations for relaxation, learning about the plant world, and enjoying natural beauty. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) to explore the most enchanting botanical gardens in New Jersey.
New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Ringwood
Nestled within the sprawling Ringwood State Park, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden is a true jewel of New Jersey. This garden boasts numerous themed gardens, each with its unique beauty and focus. Stepping into the State Botanical Garden, you’ll feel transported to another world, where nature and horticultural artistry blend seamlessly.
Highlights include the Italian Garden, featuring stone terraces, fountains, and meticulously manicured topiary, reminiscent of classic Renaissance gardens. The Magnolia Garden captivates visitors with the delicate beauty of hundreds of magnolia trees in full bloom each spring. Additionally, the Rhododendron Garden and Rose Garden are must-visit spots, especially during their peak blooming seasons.
A woman walking under cherry blossom trees in a park
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden is not just a place for sightseeing but also a center for plant education and research. The garden frequently hosts classes and workshops on gardening, nature conservation, and floral arranging, attracting nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum – Where Natural Beauty Meets History
The Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit is a historic garden spanning 13.5 acres, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The grounds were once the estate of the Reeves and Reed families in the 19th century, and the manor house is preserved to this day, serving as the garden’s administrative and educational center.
A distinctive feature of Reeves-Reed Arboretum is its emphasis on natural landscape preservation. The garden includes natural woodlands, meadows, and a babbling brook, creating a diverse habitat for various flora and fauna. Visitors can explore hiking trails through the woods, admire the unspoiled beauty of nature, and learn about the local ecosystem.
The Arboretum also features captivating themed gardens such as the Rock Garden with a unique collection of alpine plants, the Herb Garden with a variety of culinary and medicinal herbs, and the Children’s Garden where young ones can play, learn, and explore the plant world in an engaging way.
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary – A Haven for Birds and Trees
The Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary in Short Hills is a 16-acre nature preserve and arboretum, renowned for its biodiversity and as an ideal refuge for bird species. Established in 1923 by Cora Hartshorn, a dedicated conservationist, the garden aims to protect the natural habitat for birds and other wildlife.
The main attraction of Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is its well-preserved natural forest ecosystem. Visitors can stroll along winding trails under mature trees, listen to birdsong, and observe rare bird species in their natural environment. The garden also features a Bird Blind, allowing visitors to observe birds discreetly without disturbing them.
Furthermore, Cora Hartshorn Arboretum includes a Memorial Garden with plants and flowers planted in memory of those who contributed to the garden, and a Butterfly Garden attracting hundreds of colorful butterflies during the summer.
A street covered by blooming cherry blossom trees
Sayen House and Gardens – Japanese Serenity in the Heart of New Jersey
Sayen House and Gardens in Hamilton Township is a 30-acre public garden, embodying a refined and peaceful Japanese style. The garden was designed by Fred G. Sayen, a lover of Japanese culture and art, and opened to the public in 1988.
The highlight of Sayen House and Gardens is the Japanese Garden, featuring a tranquil pond, arched stone bridges, antique stone lanterns, and vibrant red Japanese maple trees. The garden is designed according to Zen principles, creating a serene and tranquil space, helping visitors relax and find inner balance.
In spring, Sayen House and Gardens becomes particularly enchanting as thousands of rhododendrons and azaleas bloom, transforming the garden into a sea of vibrant colors. The annual Azalea Festival in May attracts thousands of visitors to admire the magnificent floral displays and participate in cultural arts activities.
Deep Cut Gardens – A Garden for Rose Lovers
Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown is a 54-acre public garden, known for its impressive rose collection and diverse display gardens. The garden is part of the Monmouth County Park System and is open to the public free of charge year-round.
The most prominent feature of Deep Cut Gardens is the Rose Parterre, featuring over 5,200 rose bushes of more than 180 different varieties. The rose garden is designed in a classic French style, with neatly trimmed rose beds, creating a romantic and captivating setting. The peak rose blooming season in late spring and early summer is the best time to visit Deep Cut Gardens.
Beyond the rose garden, Deep Cut Gardens also offers other appealing gardens such as the Potager Garden showcasing various vegetables, fruits, and herbs, the Trial Garden where new plant varieties are tested, and the Sensory Garden specially designed for people with disabilities, stimulating the senses through plants, sounds, and scents.
Leonard J. Buck Garden – North America’s Largest Rock Garden
The Leonard J. Buck Garden in Far Hills is a unique 33-acre rock garden, hailed as one of the largest and most beautiful rock gardens in North America. The garden is built on an abandoned quarry, utilizing the natural hilly terrain and large boulders to create a majestic and impressive landscape.
The unique aspect of Leonard J. Buck Garden is its rich and diverse collection of alpine plants, including thousands of shrubs, herbaceous plants, conifers, and vines originating from around the world. Plants are interspersed among the rocks, creating unique layers of colors and shapes that change with the seasons.
Leonard J. Buck Garden is not only a rock garden but also a significant nature preserve. The garden is home to many rare flora and fauna, including endangered species. Visitors can explore the garden through a network of hiking trails, admire the natural beauty, and learn about biodiversity conservation efforts.
Van Vleck House & Gardens – A Historic Family Garden
Van Vleck House & Gardens in Montclair is a historic 6-acre garden, owned by the Van Vleck family for over 140 years. The garden features Colonial Revival architecture and is famous for its collection of rare rhododendrons and azaleas. The Van Vleck House, built in 1916, is a prime example of Colonial Revival architecture and currently serves as the garden’s event and education center.
The highlight of Van Vleck House & Gardens is the Rhododendron and Azalea Garden, featuring hundreds of rhododendrons and azaleas in various colors, blooming in spring. The garden is designed in a naturalistic style, with winding trails meandering through the flowering shrubs, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere.
Van Vleck House & Gardens is not only a beautiful garden but also an important historical site. The garden is a testament to the Van Vleck family’s contribution to the development of Montclair and is an integral part of the local cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The botanical gardens in New Jersey are invaluable natural treasures, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the diverse beauty of the plant world, relax in green spaces, and learn about nature conservation. Whether you are a flower enthusiast, an amateur gardener, or simply seeking a peaceful place to escape the urban hustle, these botanical gardens will surely not disappoint. Plan your exploration of these green paradises today and experience the wonderful intersection of nature and culture in New Jersey.