A Garden Unlike Any Other... Unexpected takeaways from the Biltmore Estate Gardens
The girls and I exploring the Gardens at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC
Happy Spring Break, Flower Friends,
Even on vacation, my love for flowers seems to follow me everywhere. This week my family and I had the pleasure of exploring the stunning Biltmore Estate and Gardens in Asheville, NC. It was an experience that left me inspired and rejuvenated, and I wanted to share three unexpected takeaways with you all.
According to the Estate’s website, “Biltmore’s 8,000 acres are comprised of six formal and informal gardens, a Conservatory, and nature trails…Renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted designed the estate” as well as the famous, New York Central Park.
1. Embracing Imperfections: Even Esteemed Gardens Have Pests
Aphids on Hellebore
As we strolled through the meticulously maintained pathways of Biltmore Gardens, it was a gentle reminder that even the most esteemed gardens are not immune to pests. Despite the best efforts of the gardeners, we noticed a few pesky critters making themselves at home among the blooms. This served as a humbling reminder that in the world of flower farming and gardening, challenges are inevitable. However, it's how we tackle these challenges and adapt to them that truly defines our success. Pests are just a part of the process and everyone no matter the size of the staff or the history of the garden deals with them.
2. Celebrating Diversity: Native Plants Shine Even in Formal Gardens
Virginia Bluebell (Mertensia virginica)
One of the most captivating aspects of Biltmore Gardens was the harmonious blend of exotic blooms and native plants. Amidst the formal displays of roses, tulips, and daffodils, native species like Virginia Bluebells, rhododendrons, and creeping phlox, stood out with their unique charm and resilience. It was a beautiful testament to the power and beauty of diversity in our gardens. There is also an elaborate conservation effort in progress on the estate to remove non-native trees nearing the end of their life or causing safety threats. The goal is to replace them with native species to invite more wildlife onto the property.
3. Blooming Unapologetically: In a Field of Tulips, Be a wild flower
A rogue daffodil among the tulips
In a garden adorned with rows of meticulously planted tulips, it was the wild, rogue flowers that captured my heart the most. Their untamed beauty and unwavering spirit served as a powerful reminder to embrace our individuality and bloom unapologetically. In a world that often encourages conformity, let us be like the flower that didn’t get dug up last season and persisted against all odds this year, standing tall and proud amidst the sea of expectations, and blossoming in our own unique way.
As I reflect on our time spent amidst the blooms of Biltmore Gardens, I'm filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the memories made. May these insights inspire you on your own floral journey, reminding you to embrace the challenges, celebrate diversity, and bloom boldly wherever life may take you.
Happy gardening, my friends! Watch my Facebook and Instagram account this week for more photos and videos from our flower adventures.
Keep Blooming,
Nicole Dillon, Breemar Flower Farm
