PlaysNDirt

09/12/2025

I am honored to share that has received a badge from the Missouri Botanical Garden—a distinction that connects us with one of the most remarkable cultural institutions in the nation. 🌿 Founded in 1859, the Garden has stood as both a sanctuary of beauty and a center of scientific excellence for more than 160 years.

🌱 A Glimpse into History
• The Missouri Botanical Garden was founded in 1859 by Henry Shaw. 
• Shaw, originally from England, envisioned a garden that blended beautiful horticulture, public enjoyment, and scientific study. 
• Over time, the garden grew into a National Historic Landmark and has continuously operated for more than 160 years. 

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🌸 What Makes It Stand Out
• It spans 79 acres in St. Louis, filled with stunning display gardens, conservatories (hello, the Climatron!), historic architecture, and rare botanical collections. 
• The Japanese strolling garden, Seiwa-en, covers about 14 acres, and is the largest of its kind in North America. 
• It’s not just about beauty — the garden is deeply involved in research, conservation, education, and environmental stewardship. 

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🏆 Top Rankings & Reputation
• It’s widely considered one of the top botanical gardens in the U.S. — frequently appearing in “best of” lists for gardens, scenic beauty, and botanical collections. 
• Among its peers, it stands out not only for popularity and visitor experience, but also for scientific output — its herbarium is one of the largest in North America. 

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This badge is more than recognition — it’s affirmation that we’re aligned with places that promote wonder, science, and the preservation of the natural world. To me, the Missouri Botanical Garden represents what it means to connect people deeply with nature while maintaining excellence in research and conservation.

Huge thanks to the Garden for the badge — I’ll be sharing more of the magic from there soon.



What’s your favorite memory from the Missouri Botanical Garden—or any botanical garden? 🌸

09/12/2025

🌿 Big news for PlaysNDirt! We just earned a badge from Gardens — and couldn’t be more thrilled! 🎉
If you haven’t yet experienced Longwood, you’re in for something truly magical. With over 1,100 acres of gardens, woodlands, fountains & indoor conservatories filled with vibrant, everchanging plant displays, each visit feels like stepping into a living work of art.

From immersive fountain shows and majestic seasonal blooms to peaceful trails and stunning architecture, Longwood is where nature, creativity, and inspiration unite. Perfect for families, artists, nature lovers — there’s something for everyone. 🌺✨
Thanks to Longwood for recognizing — we look forward to many more inspiring moments ahead! 💚

09/07/2025

Summer's Last Blush
Petals kiss soft fur,
Dogs and cats nap in the shade,
Hearts are full of light.

09/06/2025

Genetics of Flowers

Over the past century, the beauty of flowers has been not just preserved—but transformed—through the magic of genetics. Scientists and breeders have explored the genes responsible for color, scent, and bloom shape in classic flowers like roses, sweet peas, and dahlias. By carefully selecting and crossing varieties, they've developed modern cultivars that retain the nostalgic charm of old-fashioned blooms while adding vibrant hues, fuller petals, and longer bloom times. For instance, genetic studies in Rosa x hybrida have revealed how traits like repeat flowering and complex petal formation have been enhanced through the introduction of specific genes (De Vries & Dubois, 1995; Zlesak, 2007). Advances in DNA research now allow breeders to maintain historical aesthetics while overcoming limitations like disease susceptibility or scent loss. What once took decades of guesswork now happens with precision, using tools like marker-assisted selection and gene mapping. Some even describe flower breeding today as “genetic artistry,” blending nature’s palette with human intention. Still, the core inspiration remains the same—capturing the joy that a beautiful bloom brings to the soul.

Whether you adore the airy elegance of heirloom sweet peas or the bold drama of modern peonies, you're witnessing the living results of this floral evolution.

09/06/2025

The Hidden Gem of Olympia: The Sunken Garden

Tucked behind the Washington State Capitol in Olympia lies a breathtaking secret — the Sunken Garden. Designed in the early 20th century, this lush, terraced garden bursts into life every season with colorful blooms, towering evergreens, and carefully curated plantings that reflect the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. 🌿

Stroll through winding paths lined with perennials, flowering shrubs, and fragrant seasonal plantings, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Capitol building. From spring tulips to late-summer dahlias, every visit offers something new to discover. 🌸

Whether you’re a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a traveler exploring Olympia, the Sunken Garden is the perfect place to:
🌿 Enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature
🌸 Capture stunning seasonal photos
🌞 Take in the architectural elegance of the Capitol grounds

If you haven’t wandered through this hidden gem, make time on your next visit — it’s truly one of Olympia’s most picture-perfect escapes.

09/06/2025

A Stroll Through Butchart Gardens

Tucked away on Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is pure magic — a living masterpiece that changes with every season. 🌿

In September, the gardens glow with late-summer blooms and the first hints of autumn color. Meandering paths lead you through lush borders, fountains, and hidden corners where time seems to slow down. Whether it’s the vibrant Sunken Garden, the tranquil Japanese Garden, or the romantic Rose Garden, there’s inspiration everywhere you look.

If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss:
🌸 The Sunken Garden for its sweeping views
🌿 The Japanese Garden for quiet reflection
🌹 The Rose Garden with hundreds of fragrant varieties
✨ Evening illuminations for a magical after-dark experience

Butchart Gardens isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling. A reminder of how nature and artistry can come together to create something unforgettable.

09/06/2025

11/24/2022

07/11/2020

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03/10/2015

Missouri Botanical Garden Orchid Show

08/08/2014