Let it never be said that Washingtonians don’t appreciate a beautiful, formal garden when they see one. Case in point — the popularity of Georgetown’s Dumbarton Oaks or Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley.
This summer, Ladew Topiary Gardens, situated in northern Baltimore’s hunt country, is a trip that should be added to any garden lover’s “must visit” list. It was here among the rolling fields and horse farms that wealthy New Yorker Harvey S. Ladew (1887-1976) purchased an estate in the early part of the 20th century.
A traveler, artist and commonly known eccentric, Ladew had far more in mind than a country lifestyle ensconced in a great manor house. Obsessed with gardening he would transform 22 acres on his 250-acre property into 15 spectacular, thematic “garden rooms.”
Then, in his waning years, Ladew chose to share his most magnificent topiary creations with all garden lovers. In 1971, Ladew Topiary Gardens opened its gates to the public, along with the baronial house and outbuildings.
“It’s bright and green and blooming out here — a great time to spread the news about the gardens!” said Ladew’s director, Emily Emerick.
Open for the season, the Garden Rooms range in styles from the grand Great Bowl and the impressive Iris Garden (with its 400-foot stream) to the serene Water Lily Garden. The historic manor house, open for tours, boasts an amazing array of English antique furnishings and equestrian-themed paintings, all collected by Ladew.
“We also have a mile and a half Nature Walk which meanders through the surrounding countryside and offers a great natural option in contrast to the formal gardens,” Emerick continued.
All three elements of the estate — formal gardens, walking path and house — serve as a backdrop for more than 100 events and programs each year. These include everything from children’s programs to lectures and concerts.
“Groovin’ in the Grass” is this year’s themed concert schedule, held in the Great Bowl Sunday evenings (June 13 to Aug. 15) from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are available at the door. Picnics, blankets and chairs are welcome with food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Concert admission includes the gardens: members $7, adults $15, seniors (62+) and students $13, children (12 & under) $3.
“Ladew is a great stay-cation destination! Special events include Sunday evening concerts, our ‘In the Garden Series’ and ‘Storytime,'” said Barbara Barnoff, visitor services and marketing coordinator at Ladew.
However, if summer afternoons and evenings spent alone among graciously manicured topiary or a stroll along garden paths is more to your liking, Henry S. Ladew would certainly have approved.
