Located in Dunellen, New Jersey, Rutgers Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the middle of a busy suburban setting. The 180-acre Rutgers University-run botanical garden is a tranquil haven where people can get back in touch with nature while also learning about the evolution and science of plants.
The gardens are accessible all year long, and there is always something new to discover, from the vivid spring blossoms to the crisp autumnal foliage. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the significance of the plants and landscapes, or they can wander through the various gardens, each of which has a distinctive theme and style.
The Roy H. DeBoer Evergreen Garden, a living display of conifers that offers a year-round display of textures and shades of green, is one of Rutgers Gardens’ most beautiful features. When most of the other outdoor areas are dormant in the winter, this garden is especially lovely.
Another well-liked attraction is the bamboo forest, which can be found close to the gardens’ entrance. This bamboo grove, which contains more than 70 different species, offers a tranquil retreat and is home to many different bird species. The towering bamboo stalks that sway in the breeze can be seen as visitors stroll along the winding paths.
Rutgers Gardens provides a wide range of educational programs and workshops on subjects like composting, rainwater harvesting, and organic gardening for those who are interested in sustainable gardening techniques. Participants in the Sustainable Landscape Certification Program learn how to design eco-friendly landscapes that are good for the environment and people’s health. The program is provided in collaboration with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.
The university’s Department of Plant Biology utilizes Rutgers Gardens as a research facility in addition to its educational initiatives. The gardens are the location of several research plots, including an arboretum of woody plants, a medicinal plant garden, and a garden of native plants.
The student farm, which is managed by the Rutgers Student Farm Club, is one of the most distinctive aspects of Rutgers Gardens. Students interested in food systems and agriculture can use this one-acre plot of land as a learning lab. It is dedicated to sustainable agricultural methods.
The Rutgers Farmers Market, which is held on the grounds of the gardens every Friday from May through November, sells a variety of crops grown by the student farm, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Additionally, there are vendors at the market selling bread, cheese, honey, and other products made in the area.
More than just an attractive location, Rutgers Gardens is worth visiting. It serves as a gathering place for the community and hosts a range of occasions and activities all through the year, including the traditional Spring Flower Fair and the Winter Wreath Workshop. The gardens are a popular destination for visitors of all ages and interests because they also host concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural events.
Rutgers Gardens provides a range of volunteer opportunities, including gardening, event planning, and visitor services, for those who want to learn more about the gardens. Volunteers are essential to keeping the gardens beautiful and making sure that visitors have a memorable time.
In conclusion, Rutgers Gardens is a well-kept secret in the heart of New Jersey, providing visitors with a chance to re-connect with nature, discover sustainable gardening techniques, and discover the diversity and beauty of the plant kingdom. The gardens are a destination that visitors will want to visit time and time again because of their distinctive features, educational programs, and community events. Rutgers Gardens offers something for everyone, regardless of whether you are an expert gardener, a nature enthusiast, or just seeking a tranquil respite from the pressures of everyday life.
