Living like a local: Arboretum's appeal
Southeastern North Carolina has many parks and walking trails to enjoy the beauty of the foliage, but one in particular is Wilmington’s arboretum.
The New Hanover County Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Drive, is easy to visit. First of all, it is free and has plenty of parking. It is not large, and from your car you are only a few steps from entering the gardens. The walkways are wide and flat. They are perfect for meandering around and taking in the sights and smells.
Each garden and exhibit has a small mailbox that contains a QR code on the inside of the door. By scanning this on your phone you can get all of the information regarding the exhibit. You can also schedule a guided tour if you call ahead.
This park features many native plants and trees. In addition, there is a Japanese garden, a lake and various shelters, sheds and garden tools to explore. This combines to create an educational and informative experience.
The arboretum has some beautiful places to sit under trees and within the gardens. I always feel I could sit and write on one of these. I have not done this but really wish that I would. If you are in a contemplative mood this is the spot to go. It will be tough to find a place more peaceful.
In addition to cozy benches and relaxing walkways there are also places to have a picnic. There are various tables and grassy spots to bring a blanket and your lunch basket. If you fill your basket with some cold fried chicken, biscuits, fresh fruit salad and coleslaw then you have yourself a nice Southern meal.
The arboretum is a great resource for your lawn and garden questions. First of all, they have a display of different squares of sod. This way you can view the different types of grasses before you decide on one for your new lawn. If you are not planning a new yard of grass then someone will be available to answer questions about your yard maintenance. If you are having trouble with your grass, you can bring in soil samples and get answers as to why. They can tell you if you are perhaps over or under watering, your grass may need vitamins or minerals or maybe has a disease.
The arboretum also has Master Gardeners on-site who can diagnose funguses or a disease affecting your trees. If you bring them a leaf, some surrounding soil and maybe a branch they will help you find solutions. If you want advice on planting a vegetable garden or flowers, they will advise you on the best methods and plants to use.
The arboretum is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Officials hold host classes and events such as their native plant sale. If you visit the arboretum’s website, you will find information on current dates and times of various events. They also are always looking for volunteers. It is a positive way to support the community and get outside.
The arboretum is a great and simple way to spend some free time. It is also a place where you can get some guidance for your own yard and garden. This quiet and peaceful park is for anyone to enjoy our community.
