I agree the fall bearing produce less, but once established may produce more. My Fall Gold is 4 years old and each crop summer and fall produce over 300 berries. Cascade Delight should produce more all at once. I have Cascade Gold! It is the largest raspberry plant I have. The canes are huge! I do want a huge summer crop, but like picking them daily. I have enough plants to get about a quart a day, so that's plenty. I would like a good purple. Only place I'm lacking but I'm out of room. Other summer bearers I have are Taylor, and Encore. Prelude is kinda in-between, it produces a fall crop, but a huge summer crop. I do have one purple, Royality, It is a replacement coming this spring, so never tasted it, but reports I read is it is just average. I was going to replace it, but I could get one free, so I took it. Do you have Black Diamond? Sounds like another good blackberry. I have one coming. Again back to Fall Gold, the first couple years it was a shy producer. Once established I'm happy with production. I agree Anne is a shy producer, but may pick up too? I'm also looking forward to trying Rosanna raspberry. it's supposed to taste like raspberry candy. Last year the fall crop didn't mature in time. I kept those canes so expect a summer crop from it. the same thing happened to Double Gold. So looking forward to trying it. But I have low expectations. I got Crimson Night. a dark red berry type, I discovered it is low acid, and frankly I like some kick. And it really isn't that dark. I'm not impressed. I'll keep it around anyway, I have a hard time killing anything. Mixed with the tart berries, it tastes good. i.e. I can find uses for it. I hope Double Gold tastes better. Both are from the NY program.

Multistate Research Activity Accomplishments Reported 2006 (State Summaries, supplement) California: Both the 2001 and 2002 peach rootstock trials have been established in California. The VVA-1 rootstock is the most promising item in both these plantings. It is a thrifty looking dwarf tree with generally good fruit size. For the 2002 trial it had the largest fruit size of all the rootstocks, although it did have some root suckers. In the 2001 trial, fruit size was not as good and the trees seemed a little weak. Thus, there is some concern about its long-term vitality. The 2003 Golden Delicious apple rootstock trial has also been planted in California. This planting has a large number of items that so far look promising. They range from extremely dwarfing to quite vigorous rootstocks. Of particular interest is the apparent resistance to fireblight of many of the rootstocks. In the past 2 years, about half the trees on the standard stocks M26 and M9 have died from this disease. Three trees on PiAu 56-83, one on PiAu 51-11 and one on Bud 62-396 have all died. So far, none of the CG or JM series rootstocks have succumbed to this disease. Colorado: Severe spring frost at or near bloom at the two locations with NC-140 plantings affected fruit production data for 2006. Pumiselect, Cadaman, and SLAP peach rootstocks grew best and tended to have the best fruit production at the included locations, although Pumiselect had poor survival. Final growth data was collected for the 1998 western sweet cherry study in 2006, and opportunity was taken to examine phytoparasitic nematode populations associated with the roots of the sweet cherry rootstocks. This preliminary assessment of the nematode taxa and populations found potential relationships between rootstocks and observed nematode taxa and populations. Further studies on these relationships are planned for 2007. Illinois: Two NC.140 experimental trials are planted at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Campus. The oldest trial is the 2002 ÂBuckeye Gala apple on nine rootstocks. Tree size as a function of TCSA showed that Bud-9 Europe and Bud-9 Treco continued to be the smallest, while P.14 is the largest. Yield per tree was adequate with the highest (28.7 Kg) on M.26NAKB and the lowest (12.3 Kg) on B.9Treco. Fruit sizes were largest on M.9nic29 and smallest on Supporter 4. Rootstocks differed in their suckering capacity with Bud-9Erurop producing more than 5 suckers per tree, while M.26NAKB and P.14 did not produce rootsuckers. Fireblight has been a major problem in Illinois in the last three years. The nine rootstocks responded differently to fireblight infection. The most serious tree mortality occurred on M.9 T337 (100), M.26 EMLA (71%), and Supporter 4 (71%). Trees on M.26NAKB suffered 57% loss, trees on M.9 nic29 and M.9 B756 suffered 43% loss, and trees on Bud-9 Treco and Bud-9 Europe suffered only 14% loss. However, trees on P.14 did not suffer any loss to fireblight. Interestingly, Honeycrisp trees on B.9 Treco planted at the same time but not part of the trial were not affected by fireblight. The second and most recent trial was established in the spring of 2006 involves testing the interaction of rootstock genotype and replant disease using ÂMitchell Gala as scion wood grafted on 12 rootstocks. Trees have grown very nicely but it is too early to report any data. Kentucky: All of the NC-140 trials in Kentucky are located at the Research and Education Center in Princeton, KY. One is the 1999 dwarf and semi-dwarf apple plantings. Among the dwarf rootstocks, trees on CG.3041 and CG.4013 have yielded the most fruit, while trees on G.30N have yielded the most fruit among the semi-dwarf trees. Below to normal temperatures throughout the growing season resulted in fair to good color of our Fuji apples. In the 2002 rootstock trial, trees on the M.9 Burg 756 stock have yielded the most fruit over the past three seasons. Trunk cross-sectional area is highest for P.14 followed by M.9 Burg 756 and M.26 NAKBT337. Yield data was taken for the second time from two trials planted in 2003. Trees on PiAu56-83 yielded the most fruit over the past two years, and are the biggest trees in this trial. Trees in the physiology trial were thinned differentially to crop loads of 2, 5, 8, 11, and 14 fruit per square centimeter of trunk cross sectional area. No significant differences were observed among the three rootstocks (G.16, M.9 NAKBT337, and M.26 EMLA)in mortality, cumulative yield, yield in 2006, fruit size (as measured by average weight per fruit), number of flower clusters, number of fruit harvested, crop density, or trunk cross-sectional area. Neither rootstock nor the covariate, crop density, was significant in the analysis of covariance for fruit weight. Maine: Maine has three rootstock plantings. The 2003 NC-140 Golden Delicious rootstock and physiology plantings were maintained according to NC-140 protocol. Trees in the physiology study were not cropped due to insufficient fruit set. A local trial established in 2002 with Honeycrisp on M.26 EMLA and G.16 is being maintained until 2011. Data measurements included trunk circumference, tree height, number of flower clusters and yield. Growth and yield of G.16 trees was generally greater than M.26. Tree survival was similar for both rootstocks. Impacts: Planting superior rootstocks can increase yield and tree survival. Impacts will be measured as changes in the industry and will be documented through grower surveys. Maryland: All current NC-140 peach trials are located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland at the Wye Research and Education Center (WREC) outside of Queenstown. The current trials consist of the 2001 Redtop planting on fourteen different rootstocks, the 2002 Redhaven planting on eight different rootstocks and the 2002 Cresthaven /Lovell physiology study. All trees continue to be maintained using local commercial recommendations for pruning, fertility, pest control and irrigations. All established protocol for data collection have been accomplished and reported to the trial coordinators through the 2006 season. Rootstocks Controller 5 and Controller 9 have exhibited good tolerance to wet soils and some size-controlling attributes. Massachusetts: In the 1998 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial in 2006, largest trees with the smallest average fruit size (1999-2006) were on G.16. Cumulative yield per tree (1999-2006) and yield efficiency (1999-2006) were similar for trees on M.9 and M.9 EMLA, but both resulted in less yield per tree and similar yield efficiency than did G.16. In the 1999 NC-140 Dwarf Apple Rootstock Trial (McIntosh), largest trees were on CG.4013 and the smallest were on M.9 NAKBT337, Supporter 1, and Supporter 2. Cumulative yield (2001-06) was greatest from trees on CG.4013, CG.5179, and G.202 and smallest from trees on M.9 NAKBT337, G.16N, and Supporter 1. Cumulative yield efficiency was greatest for trees on Supporter 2 and least for trees on G.16N and M.26 EMLA. Average fruit size (2001-06) was greatest for trees on M.9 NAKBT337 and least for trees on Supporter 2 and Supporter 3. In the 1999 NC-140 Semidwarf Apple Rootstock Trial (McIntosh), largest trees were on G.30N, M.7 EMLA, and Supporter 4 and the smallest were on CG.4814, M.26 EMLA, and CG.7707. Cumulative yield (2001-06) was greatest from trees on G.30N. Cumulative yield efficiency was greatest for trees on CG.4814 and least for those on M.7 EMLA. Average fruit size (2001-06) was unaffected by rootstock. In the 2002 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial, the largest trees were on PiAu51-4, and the smallest were on the two B.9 strains. Greatest cumulative (2004-06) yield was harvest from trees on the B.9 strains and M.26 NAKB and the least from those on Supporter 4. The most yield efficient trees were on the B.9 strains. The M.9 strains, B.9 (Treco), and PiAu51-4 resulted in the greatest average (2004-06) fruit size, and M.26 NAKB and Supporter 4 resulted in the smallest. In the 2002, NC-140 Peach Rootstock Trial, trees on Cadaman and Lovell were the largest, and those on VSV-1, Pumiselect, and VVA-1 were the smallest. Greatest cumulative yield (2005-06) and yield efficiency (2005-06) resulted from Cadaman and Lovell and the lowest from Pumiselect and VSV-1. Average fruit size (2005-06) was not affected by rootstock. Pumiselect has experienced the greatest tree loss (50%), followed by Penta (25%), MRS 2/5 (12.5%), and VVA-1 (12.5%). In the 2002 NJ/MA Apple Rootstock Trial (Cameo), trees on G.16 were larger than those on B.9 or M.9 NAKBT337. Trees on G.16 had the greatest cumulative yield (2003-06), and those on B.9 were the most yield efficient. Average fruit size (2003-06) was unaffected by rootstock. Impacts: Approximately 250 acres were planted to dwarfing rootstocks during the last year. All rootstock recommendations are based on the results of this project, and growers rely heavily on those recommendations when selecting the proper scion/rootstock combinations. These rootstocks, will reduce pruning and harvest labor by 50%, increase fruit quality, increase size by 10-20%, and enhance the economic return on this acreage by as much as 50%. Further, smaller trees require 70% less pesticide because of reduced canopy volume. The net effect of the planting in 2006 is to reduce the amount of spray material in total by about 250,000 gallons per year in Massachusetts. The beneficiaries of this yearÂs research are tree-fruit growers and the citizens of the Commonwealth. Michigan: For the ÂMcIntosh apple trials planted in 1999, the G.30 clone appears to be the only semi-dwarfing rootstock performing well in sandy infertile soil of northern Michigan (Traverse City), suggesting commercial promise for this region. CG.5087 warrants further testing due to productivity and vigor. On the better soil of central west Michigan (Clarksville), ÂMcIntosh on the dwarfing CG series 4013, 5202 and 5935 show commercial potential at this time. For the ÂMontmorency tart cherry trial planted in 1998, no rootstock has performed as well as standard mahaleb seedling for trunk-shaker mechanical harvest. However, for alternative mechanical harvest methods that would utilize smaller trees at higher densities, the semi-dwarfing W158 and more dwarfing W72 have higher yield efficiencies than mahaleb. The sweet-tart varieties Balaton and Danube on the vigorous Hungarian mahaleb seedling rootstocks have been yielding better than on standard mahaleb seedling. For mechanically-harvested processing sweet cherries (e.g., Hedelfingen), standard mahaleb and the Hungarian mahaleb rootstocks (Erdi V, CT.2753, and CT.500) have been much more yield efficient than Mazzard, yet fruit quality (size) has been similar. In genetic studies, an efficient adventitious shoot regeneration protocol has been established for successful and stable Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of sour cherry and hybrid cherry rootstock genotypes. Studies of high tunnel sweet cherry production on dwarfing rootstocks have demonstrated yields of 4.0 to 5.4 tons/acre of fruit averaging 12.5 g in weight and 97% 10-Row and larger in size, with projected net (gross value  harvest labor cost) values of $18,650 to $24,500 per acre and reduced needs for chemical pesticide inputs. Minnesota: In the NC140 1999 planting, tree size ranking has not changed significantly. In the dwarf planting, Supporter 1 is the smallest tree and CG.4013 the largest. In the semidwarf planting there are no significant differences among the rootstocks in TCA. Yield for the Cornell-Geneva rootstocks was significantly higher in the dwarf planting than the others under evaluation. Fruit produced on trees grafted onto CG.5202 and CG.4013, on average, produced 28 kg/tree without much of a reduction in fruit size. Fruit produced on trees grafted onto G.30N and CG6210 averaged about 31 kg/tree again without a reduction in fruit size. We established a rootstock trial in the spring of 2003 with a Minnesota breeding selection MN1797, now named SnowSweet (with limited number of trees available for spring 2006 and 2007 planting). Tree growth was excellent during the 2006 growing season even though moisture was limiting during the summer. SnowSweet is a late cultivar for Minnesota with fruit harvested October 12 and has a droopy growth habit. The trend in tree size for Zestar! is for Bud 9 and M.9 trees to be smallest followed by M. 26 and then EMLA. 7. Suckering was evident on almost all EMLA.7 trees. Ranking of tree size after the 2006 growing season is the same as after the 2005 with M.26, Bud. 9 and EMLA 9 being of equal tree size and EMLA 7 being significantly larger. Fruit was harvested August 24th. New Jersey: The two peach plantings were terminated at the end of the 2006 growing season due to virus concerns. The 2001 peach planting (ÂRedhaven cv) had 7 rootstocks with significantly smaller mean trunk crossectional areas than ÂLovell (VVA-1, Jaspi, K146-43, Julior, ÂBaileyÂ, K146-44, and P30-135). Of these 7 smaller rootstocks ÂBailey had significantly higher cumulative yield efficiency than ÂLovell (0.90 vs. 0.63 kg fruit/cm2 TCA) but, the others were not different from ÂLovellÂ. As of 2006 the 2002 peach planting (ÂCresthaven cv) had four rootstocks with significantly smaller mean trunk cross sectional areas than ÂLovell (VSV-1, VVA-1, Penta, MRS 2/5, and Adesoto 101). Cumulative yield efficiency was not significantly different among rootstocks in the 2002 planting. The 1998 NC140 CG-16 Jonagold Rootstock trial compares CG 16 to the standard M9 EMLA. In 2006 there were no significant differences in yield, yield efficiency, or Trunk Cross Sectional Area. The were no cumulative yield and yield efficiency differences for 2000-2006 between these stocks. This trial will be terminated after this growing season. In the New Jersey/UMASS G16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial, B9 was the smallest stock by TCSA, G16 the largest. B9 was the most yield efficient stock in 2006 and had the largest cumulative yield efficiency (2003-2006). B9 and M9337 had significantly higher average fruit weight over G16 in 2006. 2002-NC-140 Gala Apple Rootstock Trial consists of 11 rootstocks. Tree growth was excellent in 2006. There was no significant difference in average fruit size, yield or yield efficiency between stocks. Rootstocks affected TCSA, cumulative yield and cumulative yield efficiency at the end of the 5th growing season. The largest trees at the end of 2006 were PiAu51-4 and P. 14 and the smallest trees were B.9Europe followed B.9Treco. B.9Europe and B.9 Treco stocks had the highest cumulative yield and efficiency. There were no significant differences in average fruit size. 2003 NC-140 Apple Physiology Trial- This year was our first opportunity to evaluate the effect of crop load and its interaction with rootstock in this planting. Trees had adequate bloom and fruit set to establish nearly the full complement of crop loads requested by the protocol. There was a significant interaction effect of crop load and rootstock on average fruit weight (P=0.0040). Fruit weight decreased linearly with increasing crop load on the G16 and M26 but not on R337 (Fig 1). There was also a significant interaction effect of crop load and rootstock on TCA growth from 2005 to 2006 (P=0.0019). TCA growth decreased linearly with increasing crop load on G16 and R337 but not on M26. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial NJ and MA Cooperating- Twelve rootstocks from the Cornell breeding program including standard stocks were utilized. At the end of the 2006 growing season G.4210 was the smallest stock and G.5935 was the largest. G.4210 had the largest increase in circumference from spring to fall in 2006. B.9 had the smallest increase in circumference. New York: Several apple rootstock trials showed G.41 was the most yield efficient dwarf stock we are evaluating. G.16 was also highly efficient. A field trial conducted jointly by Cornell University and USDA-ARS showed that almost all of the CG rootstocks showed no rootstock death to fire blight when the scion was inoculated. Exceptions were G.11, G.65, G.935, CG.4288 CG.6006 and CG.6210 which each had a low percentage of trees infected. B.9 also had a low level of trees infected in this trial. Low levels of infection were also shown for P.14 P.22, PiAU56-83, Vineland 3 and M7. New rootstocks from Japan (JM series) showed no infections except JM.2. The Vineland series of rootstocks showed no infection except Vineland 3. All of the Malling stocks except M.7 showed a high level of infection as did Ottawa3, and Supporter 4. A pruning study overlaid on the 1998 sweet cherry rootstock trial showed a trend toward larger fruit size from spur extinction pruning or stubbing back pruning even of dwarfing stocks. Nevertheless the dwarfing stocks continued to produce smaller fruit size. Analysis of covariance showed that the difference in fruit size was largely the result of high crop loads with the dwarfing stocks. Peach experiments showed that Controller 5 and Krymsk-1 (VVA-1) survived much better in NY state than any other stocks. These have high potential as improved peach rootstocks for northern growing areas. NY Outreach Activities A grower field day was held in July to highlight high density sweet cherry orchards on several dwarfing rootstocks which stimulated grower interest to expand sweet cherry acreage in NY State. A grower field day was held in Northern NY to highlight high density apple orchards on various dwarfing rootstocks to improve the productivity and profitability of new apple orchards in the Northern production areas of the state. North Carolina: North Carolina has four of the NC-140 cooperative apple plantings. The trials that are currently under investigation in North Carolina are the 1998 gala planting, both the 1999 fuji dwarf and semi-dwarf plantings and the 2006 apple replant trial. Growing conditions in 2006 were ideal with adequate rainfall during the summer and no significant frost/freeze conditions in the spring during bloom. In the 1998 gala planting the trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA) of trees on G.16, M.9 EMLA and M.9NAKBT337 were not significantly different, however trees on G.16 were numerically larger and those on M.9NAKBT337 were the smallest . Trees on G.16 had the greatest cumulative yield which was significantly greater than that of trees on M.9EMLA which had the least. In the dwarf fuji planting, trees on CG.4013 had the largest TCSA and trees on M.9 NAKBT337, Supporter1, 2, and 3 had the smallest. Trees on CG.5935 had the greatest cumulative yield and trees on Supporter 1 the lowest. In the semi-dwarf planting, there were no significant differences in TCSA, although trees on CG. 6210 were the largest and those on CG.4814 the smallest. Cumulative yield was greatest for trees on CG.6210 followed by G.30T and CG. 7707 and the lowest yield was for trees on M.7 EMLA and M.26EMLA . Following the tropical storm damage received in 2004, several rootstocks of interest that may have brittle or shallower roots are CG.5179, Supp.4, CG. 7707, G.30N and G.30T. Data from the 2006 apple replant study will not be collected until mid-winter 2007. The information generated in this project is given at grower meetings and orchard tours are held in the plantings to help educate our clientele in the southeast about apple rootstocks. Nova Scotia: Season and Crop: The winter was considered generally mild. The lowest temperature was on February 12 at -19.4oC. The season started very dry and ten days to two weeks earlier than usual. McIntosh full bloom was May 24th which was almost two weeks earlier than usual. Immediately following the bloom period and during bloom for the late varieties, cloudy overcast wet weather moved in and persisted for about two weeks. The lack of sunshine, we believe, increased the efficiency of thinners and confirms earlier work by Ross Byers. Cortland appeared to be especially sensitive, and there were reports of over thinning with Sevin. All this led us to predict a lower crop than usual, however fruit size was larger than normal, and the late varieties preformed well, so there was only a slight reduction in the regionÂs crop. Status of the Current and Previous Trials at Kentville, Nova Scotia and Bouctouche, New Brunswick: The following trials are currently in place at Kentville: the 2006 Replant Study; the 2005 Pyro-Dwarf Pear Rootstock Trial; the 1999 Cornell Geneva dwarf and semi-dwarf rootstock planting; and the 1998 Cornell/Geneva G. 16 and G. 41 mini planting The 2006 replant trial was not planted until very late so growth has been minimal this year. This was planted by David Baldwin under the direction of dr. Privé who had planed to combine the Bouctouche and Kentville trials. Since that time, he has accepted a acting position in administration and will not be available for the next six months, it is not known how this will impact on the long term plans. In the mean time, C. Embree is continuing to supervise the research. For the 1998 JonaGold trial, the rootstock G.16 is 27% larger than M.9, G.41 is slightly smaller than G.16. In 2006 fruit size was smaller on M.9. The 1984, 1989, and 1992 plantings are still in place, but are being used for other studies. Pennsylvania: Sudden cold temperatures in early December 2005 killed all but two of the Redhaven/ MRS 2/5 trees in the 2002 peach trial. This suggests that trees on MRS 2/5 may harden off more slowly than is desired. Tree mortality is high for G.41 in the 1998 apple planting. Our preliminary diagnosis for the tree loss is graft union necrosis (ToRSV). G.16 and M.9 have 100% survival in this planting, and trees on these two stocks are very comparable in growth and performance. Further diagnostic study is planned to confirm the preliminary conclusion. Tree mortality is very high for all three Supporter rootstocks in the 1999 dwarf Fuji planting in Biglerville. Fuji trees on Supporter rootstocks at Rock Springs are also growing and performing poorly, while McIntosh trees on Supporter rootstocks have growth and productivity similar the other rootstocks in the trial. The 2006 replant X rootstock planting grew well, although initial tree quality, caliper, and number of feathers were highly variable. Data collection for 2006 is underway for all plantings. Research results will form the basis for making rootstock recommendations to Mid-Atlantic fruit growers. South Carolina: In the 2001 peach trial, ÂRedtop on BH-4, K146-43, and K146-44 rootstocks had 100% survival after 6 years in the orchard. SLAP and SC-17 continued to be the most vigorous rootstocks. No rootstock produced fruit significantly larger than Lovell. SC-17 and Bailey have been the most productive rootstocks over the last 4 years, with cumulative yields ~270 kg/tree. Bailey, Hiawatha, K146-43, VVA-1, and Lovell have the highest cumulative yield efficiencies. Julior, Jaspi, and VVA-1 continue to produce trees with low vigor and fruit yields. There was a 3-day range in bloom date and a 4.5-day range in maturity date. In the 2002 peach trial, ÂRedhaven on Lovell and K146-43 have 100% survival after 5 years in the orchard. Cadaman and Lovell continue to be the most vigorous rootstocks, and Mr.S. 2/5, VSV-1, and VSA-1 continue to be the least vigorous. Fruit of trees on VVA-1, Cadaman, and Lovell were largest, and fruit of trees on Mr.S. 2/5 were smallest. Cadaman and Lovell had the highest fruit yields in 2006, and were the most productive rootstocks over the last 3 years, with cumulative fruit yields >150 kg/tree. Adesoto 101, Mr.S. 2/5, VSV-1, and VVA-1 had the lowest yields. Low-yielding rootstocks ( 20 kg/tree), and highest cumulative yields (> 45 kg/tree). GI 195-20 had the highest yield efficiency in 2006 and highest cumulative yield efficiency. Mahaleb and Mazzard continue to be the least yield efficient rootstocks. In the 1999 Fuji dwarf apple trial, trees on Geneva 16N rootstocks continued to be the most vigorous, and trees on Supporter #3 rootstocks were the least vigorous. Fruit size was largest with Geneva 16N and M.9T337 rootstocks and smallest with Supporter #2 and Supporter #3. There were no significant differences in fruit yield in 2006. CG.179, Supporter #2, and Supporter #3 rootstocks had the highest yield efficiency in 2006 and also over the last 6 years. In the 1999 Fuji semi-dwarf apple trial, M.26 rootstocks continued to be the most vigorous. There were no significant differences in fruit size, total fruit yield, or cumulative fruit yield. Yield efficiencies were highest with CG.814 in 2006. Cumulative yield efficiency was much higher with CG.814 and Supporter #4 than with M.26.

Doof-I think I KNEW you in grade school... :) I don't know how you ever drew a link from eating bugs in grade school to GM tomatoes, but somehow you did! I don't think the GM tomatoes offends me that much but Carolyn stated they really don't taste that good... I have difficulty getting my mind around growing something that doesn't taste good. Yes it's good for you but if I was into that I'd be eating bran and being regular. Or growing Purple Calabash - they were so beautiful but tasted just plain AWFUL... UHG! It's always nice to have the only purple tomato on the block - but if it tastes yucky... ? Or the first with the smelly tomato - but if they smell is offensive?? Yah, I have limited space - Id rather grow a lucious yummy beaut... I can jar up and eat over the winter... :)

What to Visit in the Mid-Atlantic Posted by ChrisMD 7 (My Page) on Sun, Sep 15, 02 at 23:50 Hi - if you were going to visit the Mid-Atlantic - what would you think is worth the trip? Ratings: * would turn off to see it if I was already passing by ** would be worth planning a detour *** would be worth a special trip **** would be worth an overnight stay ***** You must see this or you can't call yourself a gardener! We're looking for gardens, arboretums, zoos, natural wonders, historic sites, museums, the bizarre, or anything else of interest to a gardener. Can't include commercial sites such as nurseries or garden centers (sorry). Please tell us why you've selected your nominations, include the location and address if you can. I'll nominate our first 5-star: ***** Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania! Remember - the Mid-Atlantic covers West Virginia, Virginia, DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and New York. I'm really looking forward to learning about your special places. Spike asks that we not post links on the FAQ pages, but you can usually find the official websites if you "Google" with the name and location. Chris - the FAQ editor MARYLAND::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Cynthia z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 0:30 * Baltimore Conservancy & Baltimore Zoo * Cylburn Arboretum in Baltimore Both of these are worth visits for anyone in the area. Let's face it, everything pales in comparison to Longwood, which I agree is worth a 'special trip.' Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 Sotterly Plantation, St. Mary's County, Maryland Posted by: DawnStorm 7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 11:50 Brookside Gardens: A gem of a place in Mont. County; no matter how many times I go there, there's always something I missed seeing the last time. Posted by: Cecilia_MD7a 7a/Baltimore,MD (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 12:37 Another vote for Brookside Gardens - best of all, it's free! Posted by: gardening_at_night 7A ) on Sat, Sep 21, 02 at 8:57 Brookside Gardens in Silver Spring is nice. National Arboretum in DC is okay, I like their Fern Valley. Posted by: sprig z7 Md (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 17:26 Brookside Gardens Posted by: Julia z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Sep 30, 02 at 22:15 ****Ladew Topiary Gardens in Monkton MD: A WOW for topiary fans and for those who aren't avid about individual specimen plants. So interesting to see a garden that reflects a single personality! Nice house tour and mostly accessible to the handicapped. Its been a hit for me with touring friends and relatives. In the summer, you can visit, picnic, and stay on for a chamber music concert. Posted by: scausey z6/7 MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 15, 02 at 22:56 Lilypons in Buckeystown, Maryland: An interesting place to visit northwest of Washington, D.C. is Lilypons water gardens. They sell plants, fish and garden accoutrements, but they have a beautiful setting near Sugarloaf mountain with acres of ponds to walk around. It's a great place for birding, too. We've seen bald eagles there. C&O Canal Towpath in Montgomery County, Md: If you like wildflowers, take a walk in April or May on the C&O Canal Towpath from Riley's Lock or off Sycamore Landing at the end of River Road in Montgomery County, MD. Even in March, bloodroot are everywhere, and later there are wild phlox, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman's breeches, etc, in profusion. Birding is excellent in the spring there, too. Posted by: Antique_Geek (My Page) on Mon, Jan 20, 03 at 8:53 St. Mary's, southern Maryland: If you want a ride in the country, how about Historic St. Mary's City, Maryland. To be sure it IS at the end of the road but it is a neat place to visit. Recall if you will it is the site of the 1634 first permanent settlement in Maryland. Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 ***William Paca House in Annapolis: A nifty town garden. Paca was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and this is a restoration of his 18th-century garden, complete with parterres, a knot garden, a pond and a small observatory. They have a wonderful plant sale each March where you can get heirloom plants for cheap: historic veggies, Lady Banks roses, hyacinth bean vines, Job's Tears, bronze fennel, several kinds of old-style hollyhock, and so forth, all for $2-$4 each. It's off Prince George Street in downtown Annapolis. Aside from the open house during the sales, tours of the house and garden are about $8, and well worth it. Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 **Surreybrooke in Middleton, Md: Another lovely afternoon can be spent at this garden. They do sell plants, but have beautiful display gardens for strolling. Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden: is also a lovely small garden in Annapolis, Md. It's only 5 acres. I can't rate it as I've never been there personally, but have seen it on TV. Ah, time to travel! Woodend Bird Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, Md is an historic site with 40 acres and dates back to 1699. The Mansion on site dates from about 1925 and was designed by John Russell Pope. This is the headquarters of the Audubon Naturalist Society. (Not really a garden. Some of the grounds are landscaped but mostly it is kept wild for birdwatching. They do have nice events, including a Winter Crafts Fair in early December...the ed.) Posted by: Msilaine NoVa 7 (My Page) on Thu, Jan 16, 03 at 17:58 National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD: Another of my other favorite places is the Tropical Rain Forest at the top of the National Aquarium in Baltimore. Very warm, full of plants, full of birds, very moist, warm, air. Rather small and crowded and sometimes noisy but that tropical air reminds me of my former home when I feel a bit homesick. WASHINGTON DC:::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 National Arboretum, Washington DC Washington Cathedral herb garden and grounds, Washington DC Dumbarton Oaks, Washington DC US Botanical Garden, Washington DC Posted by: Johnnieb Washington, DC (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 11:25 All in Washington, DC: ***** National Arboretum *** National Zoo (has some really nice landscaping with some unusual plants, and the Amazonia house is a fabulous indoor rain forest) *** U.S. Botanic Garden ** Bartholdi Park (part of the USBG but across Independence Ave. and easily missed) ** Dumbarton Oaks * Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens * Old Stone House garden (on M Street in Georgetown) ** Several small gardens around the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall: Butterfly Habitat Garden (Museum of Natural History), Enid A. Haupt Garden (the Castle), and the Kathrine Dulin Folger Rose Garden and Mary Livingston Ripley Garden (both at Arts and Industry): Posted by: DawnStorm 7/MD (My Page) on Tue, Sep 24, 02 at 11:31 Enid A. Haupt Garden: If you're in DC, be sure to visit the Enid Haupt garden surrounding the Castle Building at the Smithsonian. I stumbled across it yesterday while on my lunchtime walk--wowie! What a place! There was a bit of everything from Malabar spinach, to hostas, to passion vines, to some huge cousin of the tomato with thorns on its leaves. There was also a rose section--beautiful! Posted by: meilie z7 MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 18:55 If you're walking by the Washington Monument/Vietnam Memorial area you should enjoy the small lake/pond on Constitution Avenue that harbors a family of waterfowl. You can proceed to the Smithsonian's museums on the Mall from there. There's a nice rose garden that you can view when in bloom (from afar, no gate entry) behind the Executive Building by the Ellipse. Also view the old specimen trees that have plaques in the area. Some of these are very rare and OLD. The grounds of the White House are not too shabby either, but only to be viewed from the public areas. Posted by: scausey z6/7 MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 15, 02 at 22:56 Bartholdi Park in DC: I also second Bartholdi Park, behind the Botanical Gardens in downtown DC. It has a wonderful fountain (by Bartholdi of Statue of Liberty fame), and a fantastic garden. My DH and I used to eat lunch there several times a week and made friends with the gardeners. They grow a lot of new hybrids and are extremely knowledgeable (and sometimes share). There are quite a few worthwhile gardening programs in the Botanical Gardens - check their schedule. Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 *** Hillwood in downtown DC ? Marjorie Merriweather Post's restored mansion and Japanese gardens. Especially lovely in spring and fall. *** Dunbarton Oaks museum has lovely grounds, great for picnicking. Designed by Beatrix Farrand. Posted by: Msilaine NoVa 7 (My Page) on Thu, Jan 16, 03 at 17:58 US Botanical Gardens in DC: I am originally from Louisiana, so this time of the year I start feeling dried out and in need of moisture so I don't crack. Have you been to the US Botanical Gardens since they reopened it? Well worth the trip, and you can just sit and breathe in warm, moist air scented with green things until you are rehydrated. VIRGINIA:::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Marymd7 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 9:27 Monticello, Charlottesville, Virginia Mt. Vernon, Alexandria, Virginia Posted by: fiveoaks 7VA (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:12 Monticello: I live close by, and go about every year. Have not made it into the house since 5th grade, lol! Heirlooms! Veggies! Bulbs! Roses! A garden shop! I would give it a "do not miss", especially during garden week. Posted by: Johnnieb Washington, DC (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 19:55 Lewis Ginter in Richmond: I visited Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden several years ago, when they were just a few years old. It's a very nice small botanical garden, and I'd like to go back sometime to see what they've done since then. Posted by: steve_NJ z7A NJ (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 21:33 Lewis Ginter in Richmond: As of April, 2002, Lewis Ginter Gardens had expanded the plantings and things are maturing. Posted by: LakeAnnaRose z7VA (My Page) on Fri, Jan 17, 03 at 10:01 Maymont House and Gardens, Richmond, VA: If you go to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, VA, you should also visit Maymont House and Gardens. Very enjoyable way to spend the day. You probably would want to wait for warmer weather though :) Posted by: LynnT Z6A MD (My Page) on Tue, Oct 1, 02 at 10:13 *** Don't forget Green Springs Garden Park off Little River Turnpike in Alexandria VA. Another historic mansion with restored grounds and interesting plant combinations; excellent plant sales spring and fall. ** Agecroft in Richmond, a Tudor mansion brought over from England brick-by-brick a hundred years ago or so; not only do they have great historical gardens, but they teach seminars in historical gardening and herbcraft. Lewis Ginter Gardens: in Richmond: have never been, but I hear that their Italian Renaissance water gardens are not to be missed. Anyone actually seen the place? **** Monticello: I went down to Charlottesville last October for a Thursday-night stay in a local B&B, then spent Friday at Monticello. It was definitely the way to go, and the place was not near as crowded as on weekends. The gardeners were very friendly once they realized I had a clue, and graciously allowed me to harvest a small number of seeds to take home. Twinleaf, the resident historical-plant nursery, sells period seeds, gardening implements and plants, but they are far from cheap. Be sure to have dinner at Duley's, a local gourmet inn where we had the most wonderful lavender creme brulee... PENNSYLVANIA:::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: CarrieB z6b/7a Phila. (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 16:20 ** Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve - New Hope, PA, a *** if you're particularly into natives/woodland gardening). Check with the preserve before visiting for what is in bloom. Posted by: HollyK Zone 6B, PA (My Page) on Mon, Sep 16, 02 at 20:28 Longwood: DEFINITELY Longwood Gardens! You'll think you're in Europe when you're in their conservatory, and the outdoor spaces are phenomenal. Well worth the $10 or $12 admission fee, and a great way to spend an entire day. Chanticleer: We recently discovered Chanticleer, in Wayne, PA (just a little northwest of Philadelphia, right off the PA Turnpike). It's a small (30 acres?) garden on an old estate, very hilly, and contains a house (open to tour occasionally) with gorgeous landscaping and pool/fountains, woodland gardens, a huge pond full of lotus, a "ruin" garden built on the base of an old stone home, veggies, annuals, grasses, perennials. It is truly a great way to spend about 2-3 hours, and they encourage you to walk on the grass and sit on the lawn furniture! Posted by: Wolfe15136 z6 PA (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 9:40 *** Hershey Gardens - Hershey PA. Especially the first week in June for the roses. Posted by: bluebird70 z5 PA (My Page) on Thu, Sep 19, 02 at 10:14 Pennsbury Manor: The herb gardens of Pennsbury Manor (home of William Penn)! These are amazing all summer and a lot of work is put into them. I saw them as a child and have never forgotten them. Reasonable prices too (for entrance). Posted by: jenny_in_SE_PA 6b/7a Sunset 32 (My Page) on Thu, Sep 19, 02 at 15:09 In Philadelphia - *Bartram's Gardens *PA Horticultural Center *Japanese Tea House *Azalea Gardens by the Art Museum NEW JERSEY::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: steve_NJ z7A NJ (My Page) on Tue, Sep 17, 02 at 22:54 ** Morris Arboretum in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. Good collection of trees. Also some shrubs and perennials. NEW YORK::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: windchime z6a NJ (My Page) on Sat, Sep 21, 02 at 12:28 *** NY Botanical Gardens. As an added bonus, the Bronx Zoo is right next door. ** Skylands Manor, Ringwood, NJ. And a smaller place with historical structures and hiking trails is Ringwood Manor. Both of these places have "nice" gardens (Skylands is much nicer.) But they are great places to relax for a day, have a picnic (although, technically, I think food is prohibited in Skylands) and walk around enjoying nature. If you can only go to one, make it Skylands, which is much bigger, and has more extensive gardens. Posted by: adisim Brooklyn, NY (My Page) on Fri, Jan 24, 03 at 3:10 Old Westbury Gardens on Long Island The Conservatory Garden in Central Park Innisfree The Brooklyn Botanic Garden esp. during Cherry Blossom and Daffodil time. Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 Beatrix Farrand Garden: at Bellefield NY doesn't have a web site, but here's what I know. I got this from another site that is an Inn. "Adjacent to FDR Home Library on Route 9, Hyde Park, NY (845-229-9115) The formal gardens and 'wild' garden here were originally designed by the well regarded landscape gardener Beatrix Farrand in 1912, and are believed to be the only surviving example of one of her early residential estate projects; derivative and indicative of both American colonial and formal European gardens and landscapes. The gardens at Bellefield are open year-round, from dawn to dusk." Innisfree, Millbrook, NY: "Innisfree, 2 miles east of Taconic Parkway, on Tyrrel Road, Millbrook, NY (845-677-8000) Innisfree is a realm unto itself, featuring exquisite landscapes and views which comprise a divergent series of 3-dimensional compositions, with traditional oriental influences - landscape elements structured in such a way as to form a natural frame (as in 'teacup' gardens), which inherently draws or focuses the attention on a specific aspect of the intended vignette. Open to the public May thru October (closed Monday and Tuesday, except on holidays); 10am - 4pm. Admission: $2 on weekdays Wed-Fri; $3 on weekends Sat/Sun." Springside, Poughkeepsie, NY: "Springside Landscape Restoration off Route 9 (west of Academy Street exit), Poughkeepsie, NY (845-454-2060) Springside was originally the summer home estate of Matthew Vassar - the founder of Vassar College. Although it is not yet fully restored, Springside is nonetheless the only surviving documented example of the handiwork of Andrew Jackson Downing - generally considered to have been one of the most influential landscape architects in America. Open year-round, every day, dawn to dusk." Stonecrop Gardens, Cold Sping, NY: "Stonecrop Gardens located at 81 Stonecrop Lane (off Rte. 301), in Cold Spring, NY (845-265-2000) Imaginative landscaping and lovely display gardens in a mountainside setting which comprises 9 acres of planted tiers, perrenial beds, water gardens, stone beds, a cliff rock garden, serene views and vignettes, and even a more traditional cloistered English style flower garden, an alpine house, and a conservatory. Open to the public April thru October on specific days, and by appointment(10am-4pm); on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; admission: $5." ***** Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center in Garrison, N.Y: a fantastic 75 acre naturalistic garden. Posted by equestrian z5 NY (My Page) on Sat, May 29, 04 at 4:27 ***** Innisfree should definitely be a five star garden on you FAQ page of mid Atlantic gardens. It is unbelievably better than the "estate" gardens in the region. It has very insubstantial publicity. DELAWARE:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Posted by: Newt z7/MD (My Page) on Mon, Oct 14, 02 at 23:32 ***** Winterthur: Hasn't anyone been to Winterthur in Delaware? What a wonderful place to refresh your soul and view 60 acres of naturalistic gardens and views. There's a tram with narration one can take or just stroll the grounds. Well worth an overnight stay. The tour of the mansion was extremely interesting as well.