Gibbs Gardens in Ballground, GA

CREATING A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FOR VISITORS

Who knew that just a little over 50 miles outside of Atlanta could bring you to one of the most beautiful and unique garden experiences you could have? Jim Gibbs has spent over thirty years on a labor of love that truly delivers on the “Seasons of Color”.

SPRING BEGINS WITH MILLIONS OF DAFFODILS

It all started for me when I kept noticing a beautiful tree-lined driveway that would become the main entrance to Gibbs Gardens. It looked like something. You know what I mean?

Something special yet unmarked. My husband and I used to talk about it usually around Christmas time because we thought it must be where you bought your tree as advertised along the road. It would become the beautiful entry to the 300 acre estate garden with 200 acres of artistically landscaped gardens; sixteen different venues with their own personalities.

It starts with the amazing daffodils in late February to early March depending on how warm it has been. Over 20 million bulbs spring into bloom with all manner of color and varieties.. They were the favorite flower of Jim’s mother and he has planted a loving tribute to her memory. The Cherry trees add their lush pink canopies to the beginning of spring.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

April brings on the dogwoods and azaleas while the fern dell wakes up from the sleepy cold winter days. A replica of the Monet Bridge in France graces the waterlily pond that has over 140 varieties of both hardy and tropical types that bloom continuously through the fall.

The day I chose to visit, there were already pale yellow and pink blooms coming up and the climbing vines on the bridge were turning dark green again. The pond is a favorite for the true photographers who lug their big cannon lenses in to take close ups of the fabulous blossoms.

When the weather is at it’s nicest, the garden begins a series of Saturday evenings for music and a little wine or beer. Harp and strolling violins are perfect but jazz and country have done just as well. Home who runs the cafe in the gardens, puts together a mean box dinner that you can order ahead to be delivered for the evening.

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

You might think the hot days of summer would be the worst time to visit. You would be wrong! The gardens are laid out so beautifully that you can walk from place to place and always find shady cool spots to sit and take a break from the heat.

Arbors, gazebos, benches and sculptures abound. From the sweet pieces in the Children’s Garden that represent Jim’s grandchildren to the large artistic installations throughout, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The peace and quiet offer hours of time to contemplate, read, write or just enjoy the birds, bees and butterflies drawn to all the plant life.

Summer brings out the vibrant colors of the rhododendrons, the roses, daylilies and waterlilies. With over 1,000 different varieties of hydrangea you can continue to see their lush colors and blossoms through to fall.

This is a perfect location for a wedding and many do choose the venue with particular gardens and areas perfect for setting up aisles with chairs and creating beautiful backdrops with natural surroundings as a theme. Strategically planted trees create stunning walks and photographs for the bridal party.

JAPANESE MAPLES DAZZLE IN THE FALL

My favorite place overall is probably the Japanese Garden. With it’s spring fed water features, islands, bridges, boulders, rocks and lantern collection, it is a total zen experience. The 1,000 different varieties of Japanese maples create a stunning visual for fall with all the shades of red imaginable.

The crape myrtles, wildflowers and fall festivals create a fun place to be for September, October and early November.

The Gibb’s live in the Manor House which also sports it’s own gardens of terraces, waterfalls, pools, sweeping lawns and woodlands. The house can not be toured but you still have access to all the beauty.

You can walk to all the gardens if you desire but there are also trams you can take for an extra $5 on your ticket of $20 for a regular pass. Senior tickets are available for $18 and children 3-17 for $10. The best way to go for me is a season pass for $50 which gives you access anytime through the full three seasons of opening. Group rates are also available.

COMPLETE CONTENT FOR CONSIDERATION

All in all Gibbs Gardens is an unforgettable experience even if you don’t have much of a green thumb yourself. It is simply one of the most pleasant ways to spend a lovely day. You feel connected and back to nature.

It makes for an inspirational way to get writing ideas, to create sketches in a book or find your own stunning photographs just waiting to be taken.

There are tables and chairs by the waterlily pond for a quick bite at the Cafe. There is a nice little gift shop with all things garden for you to pick up including some artistic items and jewelry.

Don’t miss this unique garden experience.open March-May Tuesday to Sunday from 9-5 and June-mid December Wednesday to Sunday 9-5. It is short trip to Ballground, Georgia and worth every minute you’ll spend getting there. You might want to read more blogs under Explore the World and hey, don’t be a stranger! Let me know if you go what you think about the gardens too OK? Until next time…

Cheers,

ArtsyChowRoamer

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