Many New York State parks strike me as monuments to the fear of litigation. The State destroys any lake it touches as a swimming experience with ropes and whistle-happy lifeguards. But I am very fond of the Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs. It's very civilized, a nice combination of ancient pines and golf, hotel, swimming pools, theaters, picnic grounds, and mineral springs.
I took these two photos as I was running by yesterday: First, the best flower borders by far in the city are at the entrance to the park, a surprisingly personal mix of annuals, tall bold perennials, and grasses made monumental by their length and depth:
I have failed to do the border justice with my cell phone. It sits on both sides of the Avenue of the Pines, probably a 100 feet on each side. It has a color scheme that moves from blue purple and yellow in early summer to a late summer red and yellow. It is clearly the work of one guy with a vision.
I am really happy that border escaped any budget cuts. And second, a meadow allowed to grow up to save on mowing:
Nothing fancy--just grass allowed to do its natural thing, but nice nonetheless.
Michelle, you are a garden whisperer.
Why? "...clearly the work of one guy with a vision."
Garden whiperers see things & KNOW.
Interesting post on Landscape Juice today. Hope you see it.
Have a great weekend.
Garden & Be Well, XO Tara
Posted by: Tara Dillard | July 30, 2010 at 05:57 AM
Michele - you've just given me another reason to visit Saratoga! I hear there is a fabulous rose garden there, too. Is that a good rumor?
Posted by: commonweeder | July 30, 2010 at 06:45 AM
Yes, I agree the border is great. I also like the depth of the landscape as a whole.
thanks for sharing the photo with us.
Small Garden Designs
Posted by: Small Garden Designs | July 31, 2010 at 07:24 PM
I have never been there before. It looks like a great place. I hope to visit soon.
Posted by: Mag | August 01, 2010 at 11:43 AM
Someone there must be a fan of yours. They are coming around to what is pretty. It does not take alot to make a place look nice. It just has to be weeded often.
Posted by: Jeff | August 02, 2010 at 03:55 PM
This is nice. I am glad that they are doing some good.
Posted by: Lexi | August 05, 2010 at 06:30 PM