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The beauty of Longwood Gardens

Red Flare is a good name for this waterlily. BY RON MACARTHUR
ron_macarthur
June 24, 2013
Heavy rains the night before help create a larger water flow than usual at Longwood's waterfall near Chimes Tower. BY RON MACARTHUR
A Cape Blue waterlily is reflected in the dark water of Longwood's pools. BY RON MACARTHUR
Shaded walkways are a hallmark of Longwood's massive grounds. BY RON MACARTHUR
Longwood's fountain shows – day and night – are a highlight of any trip. BY RON MACARTHUR
Longwood changes its flower gardens according to the season. Summer flowers are in full bloom throughout the many gardens. BY RON MACARTHUR
Water with black dye provides the contrast to highlight this waterlily. BY RON MACARTHUR
This is a Longwood hybrid waterlily. BY RON MACARTHUR
Longwood's flower gardens are considered among the best in the world. BY RON MACARTHUR
Orchids grow in one of Longwood's many greenhouses. BY RON MACARTHUR
Shows take place several times daily at Longwood's main fountain area. BY RON MACARTHUR

Longwood Gardens outside Kennett Square, Pa., is a magical place that is so much more than beautiful gardens. Fountain shows, fireworks, concerts, plays, educational programs and Christmas lights have become an important part of the Longwood experience. Longwood hosts 800 events each year.

Generations helped to create Longwood Gardens, but one man is credited with helping to create what we see today among Longwood's nearly 1,100 acres. Pierre S. DuPont (1870-1954) used his family fortune to develop the Longwood property. He purchased the grounds from the Pierce brothers who in the 1850s had one of the finest collection of trees in the country.

Each visit is different as you explore more of the massive property, and the great thing about Longwood is how it reflects the change of each season. Longwood has 20 indoor gardens in 4.5 acres of heated conservatories and 20 outdoor gardens with 11,000 different plants and trees. About 1 million people visit Longwood each year.

See more about Longwood Gardens at longwoodgardens.org.

  • Ron MacArthur has lived and worked in Sussex County all his life. As a journalist for nearly 50 years, he has covered everything from county and town meetings to presidential visits. He also has a unique perspective having served as an elected official and lived on both sides of the county.

    Contact Ron at ronm@capegazette.com

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