A Visit To Homestead Gardens

This past Sunday, my daughter, Jaimie, and I drove to Davidsonville, Maryland, to one of my favorite independent garden centers, Homestead Gardens.The National Capital Orchid Society Show and Sale was happening, and I could not wait to see so many friends from this fantastic organization.

Walking into Homestead Gardens was like walking into the world of gardening. Right away, you are in the houseplant area of the garden center with different displays everywhere. Of course, I first saw a few African Violets (they had a few more under a big green umbrella further in). Yes, I bought one, as did my daughter, for a gift for her friend. While we wandered around, Jaimie was excited and kept saying how much she liked this or that. Then she started seeing all their homeware and accent pieces–like pictures, pillows–even some nice furniture. As we made our way to the NCOS Show and Sale, we passed by all the children’s gifts (Easter shopping is now done for both of us). Jaimie was so impressed. Whenever I go to Homestead I am a little green with envy that we never had a gift store at Behnke’s.

At the back of the garden center, we could see the orchids! I am always amazed at the beautiful orchids in the displays and how the different member orchid societies showcase the best. Even the other businesses selling orchids at the show had displays set up. All these displays are judged for overall appearance, and the different orchids are also evaluated, which happened last Friday. One of the best things about this show is you can get a tour by one of the experts from the NCOS to explain why this orchid won over another. They tell you how to care for the different types of orchids too.

The show is over for another year, but the NCOS meets monthly if you are interested in joining. And there are always other shows to attend.

While I was there, I ran into our friend Kathy Jentz from the Washington Gardener Magazine, and we did a quick little video about the show and her new book, Groundcover Revolution! I also chatted with Heather Wheatley, the Director Of Education at Homestead Gardens. Check out her video below! I will bring my granddaughter to one or two of their classes. I know my daughter-in-law’s mother has been taking their Saturday classes. Check out all the different courses on their website.