Roses by the Sea

About

“Roses by the Sea” pays tribute to classical European garden design. The layout replicates a sixteenth-century Elizabethan (UK) Pleasance Garden: symmetrical quadrants, level in layout with gravel walkways leading to a central object of interest (focal point). The quadrants are densely planted with ornamental roses, decorative herbs and obelisks, urns, and birdbaths. The parterre is located roadside where passersby can enjoy the ornate blossoms and the strong scent of 70 David Austin roses. The location encourages sharing of the garden with neighbors and friends. The parterre is managed organically: no synthetic fungicides or insecticides are employed. It’s the real deal! The parterre is nearly disease- and pest-free. The surprising health of the rose garden and its robust population of pollinators stands as testimony to what great results can be achieved avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals, but through proper layout, attention to detail, and proper husbandry … and no small amount of hard work! Further along in the middle of the property is a Japanese stone garden, planted out with black Japanese and Bosnian pines, various red and green Acer palmatum, Siberian irises, and an extraordinary large-leafed ginkgo shrub. Further down the slope is a border dedicated to native prairie grasses opposite an area of steely blue lacecap hydrangeas. The lower section is dominated by a raised bed vegetable garden surrounded by espaliered fruit trees. Nestled in back of the raised beds is a four-bin composting operation, which feeds the beds and roses with highly nutritious soil amendments. At the far end is a wildflower garden planted with native East Coast wildflowers. Once again, all the above are organically and sustainably managed.

2025 Open Day: Saturday, June 21 

Hours: 12-5