Monkton, Maryland
Ladew Topiary Gardens
The Garden Club of America has called it the “the most outstanding topiary garden in America.” Harvey S. Ladew (1887-1976), a self-taught gardener, huntsman, traveler, writer and artist, was influenced by gardens he visited in England and Italy when he designed and created the 22 acres of gardens and 15 themed garden rooms. It was during a visit to England in the 1920s that Ladew became enthralled with topiary when he saw a clipped hunt scene atop a hedge in Gloucestershire. He created the well-known hunt topiary at Ladew, depicting a fox hunt with horses, riders, dogs, and fox all clearing a hedge. Tally Ho! Horses and Hounds at Ladew. On April 1, visitors witness the start of a typical fox hunt, complete with hounds, horses and mounted riders in their “pinks.” Gardens open April – October [ info ]