Brookside Gardens: Cultivating a park
The suburbs have their advantages, and that's space. Nestled in the heart of Wheaton, Md lies a vast expanse of land, trees and flower gardens which makes up Brookside Gardens. It's Montgomery County's largest public garden,a 50-acre space situated within Wheaton Regional Park, and draws the public from around the MD-DC-VA area year-round. In fall, the turning of the leaves will bring children and bikers to tour the area, while the spring's magnolias and cherry blossoms are probably second next to the Tidal Basin.
Several gardens are planted each year and enjoyed on a seasonal basis. The children's garden features various plants and vegetables, plus a small tree house, a garden shed and a gnome house inside a tree trunk. The Japanese style garden features a large breezy tea house overlooking the water, home of some turtles, and is a great place to while away an afternoon with a book (if you can stand the shrieking children).
The Fragrace Garden brings out a blend of scents and smells, and the Butterfly Garden hosts a number of plants to attract butterflies (and bees). Other gardens include the Azalea garden, the Rose garden, the Yew garden, the rain garden and the Woodland Walk. There are two indoor conservatories that can be enjoyed in winter months as well.
There are several twisting trees that children find difficult to resist, as well as pavilions, bridges, tree-trunk tunnels and large grassy spaces. Fountains decorate other gardens and make beautiful backdrops for photography (commercial photographers, including wedding photographers, must obtain a permit in advance to take photos).
Different from other botanical gardens are the use of edible foods within the gardens. Basil, swiss chard, and other edibles can be found mixed in with perennials and trees. After the Thanksgiving holiday, the gardens light up at night for a light festival, marking the start of the holiday season. There are also music concerts and dance evenings for all music types, from jazz to punk.
Brookside's purpose is to create appreciation and interest in gardening and horticulture. Books and supplies can be purchased at the various gift shops. The garden holds many classes, lectures and events on gardening and growing topics, such as flower arranging, children's crafts, wreath-making, planter designs and film series about horticulture and agriculture. The garden encourages people to visit and help plant throughout the year.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
