Who doesn’t love a plant sale on a stunning historic estate overlooking the river on a perfect spring day? So this morning I was there at the opening of the Spring Garden Market at River Farm, the Alexandria, VA headquarters of the American Horticultural Society. 
Yes, I was sure tempted by these hellebores. And a bunch of other plants I don’t have room for. (Thanks to commenters, I’ve removed my mistaken nursery owner name.)
Savoring what was saved from development
You may remember reading here about the shocking battle within factions on the board of the AHS to sell the property for development – for an asking price of $33 million. Thankfully the pro-sale board members resigned – possibly over concerns about their own legal exposure – and the property was saved. In fact, AHS itself was saved from a hostile take-over.
(For background: my first post announced the intention to sell. Next, the intra-board battle. And lastly, the American Hort Society is saved!)
So let’s enjoy the grand spring show of color at River Farm, to be followed by more grand shows of color and a wild riverside meadow as the season progresses.
Front door. 
I love this color combo. 
More great results from a bold but disciplined color palette.
My camera was so loaded with stunning views, it takes real discipline not to show you every single one.
From inside the tent, all white tulips and a view of the Potomac. 
More tulips with Carolina jasmine and a redbud in the distance.
I’m feeling grateful for the fight waged by AHS insiders, local residents and elected politicians to save this beautiful and historically significant site from being turned into McMansions. Maybe McMansions with landscapes like these.
Throwback photo and a question
So my friend pointed to the front of the mansion, which looks pretty exposed after being draped in wisteria for so many years. We agreed it was a signature plant in the garden, so are curious about why it was removed.
Market and *TULIPS* at AHS’s River Farm on the Potomac originally appeared on GardenRant on April 14, 2023.
The post Market and *TULIPS* at AHS’s River Farm on the Potomac appeared first on GardenRant.
