Jefferson's Gardens at Monticello

[bluelacedredhead]

Here's an interesting website for those interested in both American History and Gardening.
I think that Thomas Jefferson would be thrilled to be honoured for his passion for gardening. He's certainly the only President that comes to my mind as being interested in gardening to that extent.

The Monticello Website has an Online store with different collections available as well as individual listings for seeds. And a zone chart to help you decide which plants will thrive in your growing area. Enjoy.

http://www.monticello.org/browse/agriculture.html

[Lavandula Girl]

And you should visit Monticello, too, if you ever get the chance.... incredible! If you're driving from out of state, there are some other great gardens to see.... on a smaller scale, go see the Belle Boyd Cottage in Front Royal, and then drive through the national park along Skyline Drive so you can see the phenomenal wildlife flora, including some HUGE osage oranges that fascinate me every time.

[johno]

Last time I was there was '85 or '86, but I get the catalog. It is a really cool place, and I agree about Jefferson. But another gardening president that comes to my mind is Washington... you should check him out...

[bluelacedredhead]

Yeah I think I remember..something about George and a cherry tree?? :D
Sadly, Mt. Vernon doesn't offer the same opportunity to purchase seeds from their gardens? The site does mention Martha Washington's penchant for veggies, but it seems that George was more interested in pursuing the art of raising nut trees and forage crops for livestock. Nothing wrong with that though. All critters have to eat.
But I did enjoy the page on heritage breeds of livestock raised by General Washington. With a flock of between 600 and 1,000 head of sheep, it's no wonder he spent a lot of time trying to figure out what and how to feed them!

http://www.mountvernon.org/learn/explore_mv/index.cfm/ss/30/

[johno]

If you can find them (might have to visit the Library of Congress...) G.W.'s letters to his gardener are quite interesting...