Garden Therapy

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY ADAM POTTER

Therapy

he therapeutic affects of gardens have been known since ancient times but some of Saratoga’s most therapeutic gardens remain undiscovered. Many years ago, these gardens’ glorious colors, textures, and fragrances - that lift spirits and promote well-being – didn’t exist. It has been through the dedicated hands of Heritage Garden Club volunteers, that these beautiful spaces are now here for the public to enjoy.

THE VISITOR CENTER GARDEN

The soothing scent of white alyssum loaded with bunches of small flowers, Bobo Hydrangea, and different varieties of Sedum, are the newest additions to the public garden located behind the Saratoga Springs Heritage Visitor Center. This serene garden is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Sit under the covered outdoor patio and take in the layers of blooming plants. Watch as dozens of butterflies dance and birds bathe beside a graceful statue of a woman with flowers in her hand known as “Victoria.”

Beside the picnic tables, there are eight clay pots filled with seasonal beauties until

November. Within the perimeter garden, labels and garden plaques memorialize the contributions of members as well as acknowledge the grant that helps fund them; the Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust.

OTHER PEACEFUL SPACES

The Garden of Hope at the Saratoga Hospital beside the Mollie Wilmot Radiation Oncology Center entrance is a quick way to perk up your day. This playful, sunny garden has bright begonias, coneflowers, and other delights lining a short strolling path. A pair of stone frogs are tucked in beside the garden’s daylilies, which were famously propagated by scientist Stanley Saxon. The Heritage Garden Club also brings comfort to those visiting the Gideon Putnam Burying Grounds. Their well-maintained planters highlight markers in this historic space.

A LABOR OF LOVE

The Heritage Garden Club gardens are spaces to reflect and find peace, while also being places for learning. With the help of the Department of Public Works, volunteers are able to share the benefits of gardening with students, teach them about life cycles and the importance of compost. Even during stressful times, the caretakers of Saratoga’s gardens are still out there, hauling water and digging out weeds, so that the public can enjoy a bit of beauty during their day. The Heritage Garden Club regularly holds garden workshops, speaker programs and sells garden accents during the annual Secret Garden Tour presented by the Soroptimist International of Saratoga County.

Their annual plant sale is planned for June 6th, 9 a.m. until 12 noon at the Italian American Center, 247 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs.

S S New members are most welcome. Feel free to contact them by emailing theheritage40@gmail.com. For more information, go to HeritageGardenclub org.