UT Gardens- The State Botanical Garden of Tennessee was named official botanical garden of the state of Tennessee in 2013 and shares the glory with sister gardens in Crossville and Jackson. This location is part of the University of Tennessee.
It was a tough choice between Einstürzende Neubauten’s “The Garden” or “Blume” (flowers, albeit a play on words) but here we are.
My first visit, several years ago, was on (UT Football) game day and it was a mess, so plan your visit accordingly. Many tailgaters like to set up the day’s activities in the garden’s shared parking lot. Since writing this, I have visited the gardens at least a dozen more times, and am usually one of the few people around.
As you enter you can walk left toward the greenhouses, rose memorial garden and fountains, the kitchen garden, and other themes, or you can walk right toward the Children’s Garden.
Succulent seating
The weather was cool and windy, an essential perfect early fall day.
Relaxing in the gazebo with my bff
Quiet and ethereal. Until the marching band started playing “Rocky Top.”
The Fountain in the Rose Garden
The Kitchen Garden
After the fountain, the kitchen garden is my second favourite spot. Rows and rows of shiny veggies and savoury cooking herbs stretch out under clouds of bright purple peas. On one side you will find wooden box beds of delicate flowers and plants used for teas, baths, and medicinal tonics.
I have been thinking about planting Thai chilies and these plants made me quite wistful.
Speaking of Thai, there is a central garden with Thai Giant Elephant ear plants.
Exquisite pine trees: unique texture, crisp scent, visually appealing. 10/10 will always pet.
The Children’s Garden
Giant wind chimes sing from a canopy of low-hanging branches over bushes and sculptures that pull you into the Children’s Garden. A steep running hill with a tunnel underneath, a Charlotte’s Web made of climbing rope, and other fun obstacles are all around for entertainment. There is an animal-themed garden and a fairy garden. It felt whimsical and bubbly like a Francesca Lia Block book.
The Animal Garden, where each plant is named after an animal or animal part. Cute.
We walked by the fountains again so my curious pup could watch the fish.
To learn more about the Botanical Gardens, become a member, or donate to support the ongoing projects, visit the website here.
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