A winter walk through the garden
Even though Dallas is technically still in the middle of winter, beautiful skies and a taste of warmer temperatures have been coaxing residents out of the house and into nature. And there’s no better place in the city to get some fresh air and appreciate Mother Nature at her finest than the gardens at The Dallas Arboretum. Plus, now through January 31, admission at the gate is a mere $5, so not only can you spend a pleasant day outdoors, you can get a great deal in the process.
In A Woman’s Garden, visitors can admire several varieties of flowering plants already in full bloom. Besides Sweet White Dianthus and Viola, behold the delicate beauty of the Bridal Wreath Spirea and the picturesque Upright Japanese Yew trees.Though spring is just around the corner, there is still an abundance of plants and flowers blooming in the gardens right now. Lining the walkway through the Lynda Bunker Hunt Paseo de Flores (known as The Paseo) is a profusion of pansies, including Nature Ocean and Panola Lilac Shades, as well as flowering ornamental kale such as Coral Queen, Dynasty White and Redbor.
Over in the Water Wise beds, which feature low-water-use plants such as succulents and Texas natives, guests can meander through impressive varieties already in season, including Whale’s Tongue Agave, Winecup, Mexican Honeysuckle, Desert Spoon, Desert Willow and a giant Spanish Bayonet.
The mist covering the Eugenia Leftwich Palmer Fern Dell gives the impression of a mystical fairy forest due to a micro-fine mist system that envelops it. In mid-January, it’s lush with dense green ground cover such as Autumn and Holly Fern, Chinese Fringe Flower and Cast Iron plants.
And of course our famous Crape Myrtle Allee is always a must-see on any visit to the gardens. Even if it’s a little chilly in the shade, there is a sense of calm among the overhanging trees. Take in the gorgeous scenery with the crisp blue skies peeking through.
Some other gardens worthy of a winter stroll include:
· The Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill
· DeGolyer Gardens
· Rose Mary Haggar Rose Garden
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous or just want to take advantage of the unseasonably warm winter weather, you could take a long, brisk walk through the longer loop of the gardens—or several loops to get the full experience. More athletic-minded folk are welcome to extend their route to the White Rock Lake path. One full circuit is just over 9 miles, so you’ll have plenty of time to bask in the great outdoors.
No matter what your ultimate goal is when you visit the Arboretum, you’re welcome here any time of year for a dose of nature, right in the heart of Dallas.
Be sure to visit now through the end of January, as admission is reduced to just $5 at the gate for non-members. For questions, call us at 214-515-6615.
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