Visiting Butchart Gardens

Victoria, British Columbia, is known for its beautiful, mountainous terrain, abundant sea life, and fantastic culture. If you need more of a reason to visit, Butchart Gardens is calling. The star of the show creates a patchwork across this abandoned quarry. If you have ever looked at garden images on Pinterest, there is no doubt that you have come across pictures of this garden. I will be the first to say I am not a designer who loves a ton of “in-your-face color,” but the scale in which this garden is planted is remarkable. As you stroll through you will also see that these drifts are not made up of one plant but rather intricate combinations of color and texture.

Photo by: Nick McCullough.

One area that cannot be missed is the Japanese Garden. In a sea of color and sensory overload, this is an area of tranquility and simplicity. With towering Japanese maples overhead, blankets of moss and ferns underfoot, and gentle trickling water, I could not think of a better place to sit and breathe in the salty Pacific air. This is a true gem amongst this vast garden. Throughout the garden estate are numerous planters filled with innovative annual, tree and shrub combinations that will inspire. As your eye is drawn through the garden, be sure to look up at the enormous hanging baskets-a true staple of the Victoria landscape, the color and scale will not disappoint.

Photo by: Nick McCullough.

Butchart Gardens is open year-round, but I would recommend a visit during July and August to experience the full glory of the annual borders.

Photos by: Nick McCullough.