The Ladew Gardens

Each time I visit Ladew Gardens, I am amazed all over again by how stunning the property is.  Ladew is about 45 minutes north-east of Baltimore City, located in an area of rolling hills and deep valleys. The vistas are spectacular and the land is verdant and lush.Ladew is known in horticultural circles around the world for their collection of topiaries. From the foxes and hounds that greet you on the drive in to the house, to the whimsical pieces in the sculpture garden,there’s always something fun to see.

Throughout the property, there are smaller garden rooms, including one which features a wide array of azaleas, which were in full bloom;

and a yellow garden with assorted ground covers, a stream and even a pagoda.

The real centerpiece of the property is the huge Bowl between the house and the garden. It’s several acres in size and has at its center a pond with a fountain, here in a moment of calm, and here with all of the crowds. The Bowl is surrounded on one long side by boxwood trimmed into waves with swans gliding along the tops. The amazing hedges surrounding the sculpture garden had a crenellation-style appearance. But the showcase of Ladew is the topiaries. Several dozen in all, clipped and trimmed to perfection, by a dedicated team of gardeners, both paid and volunteer, all so visitors can sit and enjoy the legacy of Mr. Harvey Ladew. The gardens host a full schedule of events throughout the year, from summer band concerts, to polo matches, to Christmas open houses. If you’re in the area, you should make time to visit this special garden.