I’ve just completed a “work week” that reminds me I have a pretty neat job. I’m writing this entry as I wait to board my plane back home after spending the last six days in Boothbay, Maine. Here, a view without the ocean is the exception to the rule. We were on location to tape three more episodes of Garden Smart, featuring the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Spruce Point Inn and a private residential garden, oceanside of course!
Indeed, Maine is known for its breathtaking rocky coastline and famous lobsters, but I hope after this week, their gorgeous gardens too. Although the winters can be rather frigid, summers here are a friend to the garden and all who come to enjoy this peaceful paradise. The bright sky and mild temperatures set the stage for perennials of every shape and size to thrive with vivid blooms and lush foliage. In the humid south where I live, many perennials seem to resist their natural programming to grow, almost like a sleepy child, reluctant to get out of bed for school. Here, flowers and plants practically jump out of the ground, anxious to strut their stuff for as long as possible before an early fall frost nips them back for the season.
If you ever have the opportunity to visit coastal Maine, Boothbay is about an hour north of Portland. The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden is a must-see when you’re there. The 240 acres includes a mile of waterfront property. How many botanical gardens can boast that claim? Make time to catch a boat to Squirrel Island for a leisurely stroll around the island on paved paths and boardwalks. After all, cars and bikes aren’t allowed on the island. If you time it just right, you might even catch the ice cream stand open. They only receive customers for two hours each day and the only business on this island of summer vacation homes and lazy afternoons.
And if you’re ever in need of a place to stay while visiting, the Spruce Point Inn will not disappoint; fine dining, ocean views, 45 acres of wooded hiking trails and relaxation galore. Yes, this was a workweek but for some reason, it just wasn’t that bad.
JL