Exploring the Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens
One of the many perks of working for a gardening magazine is the chance to explore breathtaking public gardens as part of the job.
To inject some cheer into the winter months, Christine Alexander, our website editor, has gathered a stunning array of photographs from her own collection—images that have yet to grace the pages of finegardening.com or our print publications.
This first part of the series showcases her enchanting visit to New England’s largest botanical garden.
During her journey to Boothbay, Maine, Christine visited the Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens alongside video producer Andy Brand, who was there to film content for a feature on Dividing Perennials in Fall.
The beauty of the garden left a lasting mark on her, leading Christine to create a dedicated video to share her experiences.
Andy, a familiar face at Fine Gardening, is also the garden’s Horticultural Director and well-regarded in the field.
A Vibrant Autumn Experience
Even in late October, the gardens thrived with color and life.
The Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens, sprawling over 300 acres, is divided into several distinctive sections, each with its own appeal, making it an ideal spot for days of exploration.
As Andy guided Christine through the grounds, he shared fascinating insights about key areas, such as the sensory garden, the children’s section, and the sloped garden.
His expertise extended beyond the plant species to include design ideas and maintenance tips that visitors could integrate into their own gardens.
Along with the captivating flora, the garden hosts engaging programs for all ages, holds an annual native plant sale, and features imaginative sculptures—most notably, the whimsical troll statues, or “Guardians of the Seeds,” created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Each troll tells a unique story, captivating visitors young and old alike.
It’s remarkable to witness such vibrant blooms in late October, especially in Maine.
The combination of summer-flowering ornamental grasses alongside late-season beauties like dahlias and marigolds makes it feel like summer has lingered on.
A Treasure Trove of Inspiration
The Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens offers a diverse array of gardens, each exhibiting its own unique charm.
Some sections burst with brilliant colors, while others invite a more tranquil experience, complete with serene water features and shaded nooks.
This landscape allows visitors to enjoy a dramatic palette of colors, showcasing bold plant pairings alongside more understated foliage.
Regardless of one’s garden style, the Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens is a treasure trove of inspiration waiting to be tapped.
Christine snapped countless beautiful photos during her visit, and we’re excited to share more with you next week.
Look forward to another presentation of her captivating visuals, featuring the iconic troll sculptures designed by Dambo! We hope you have a splendid weekend, and make sure to check back for the next installment of this botanical exploration!
Source: Finegardening