Winterthur spring garden walk

What better way to spend the warm spring weekend morning than to wander through the vast estate of Winterthur garden. On our previous trips, we were always heading indoors to see the peerless Americana collection in the museum. But this time round, we decided to take advantage of our membership to get a closer look at the natural treasures on the estate instead. And were we not disappointed! 

Narcissus spp (Daffodil)

Corylopsis species (Winterhazel)

Beginning right from the parking lot, we were greeted with cheery displays of potted daffodils glowing in the late morning sun. The daffodils were bordered by bushy white alyssum, emanating a sweet scent that entices one to go closer, just like a pollinator! Hopping onto the garden tram to orient ourselves to the different gardens within the grounds, we got off at the museum and slowly made our way to the Pinetum and Sundial garden where we spotted wonderful magnolias ('Wada's Memory' and star magnolias) in full bloom.

Prunus 'Accolade'

Prunus 'Accolade'

Stumbling onto the Winterhazel Walk was also pure delight. Here, the shocking pink of early azaleas was paired with the light yellow blooms from the winterhazel trees. In the undergrowth, hundreds of Lenten roses nodded their approval in the slight breeze at the tranquil and beautiful scenery. These are indeed prized collections above and over those that are preserved lovingly indoors in the museum. 

Rhododendron ‘Cornell Pink’ (Azalea)

Rhododendron fargesii

As we made our way slowly back towards the visitor center, it was clear that this was a dreamscape to lose oneself. At every turn, more natural beauties beckon us to slow our pace and take detours towards them. The spring is anxious to shrug off the cold spell and the garden is evidently on the edge of bursting with life and color. Large stands of sunny forsythia form a magnificent wall of yellow while the Azalea Woods are filled with blooming Chinese specimens with delicate pink and white flowers. Admiring the gentle hills, water features, quarry view, and plain meadows, and the beauty of the landscape on this gorgeous spring day, it was no wonder that Winterthur had such a special place in the hearts and minds of the du Pont family.  

Hellebore orientalis (Lenten rose)

Winter tour of Winterthur

So what do you do if it's cold outside and the garden is slowly retreating and taking a break from the frenzy of growth and blooms? Well, one appealing option is to bring the garden indoors and admire the green and colors in the comfort of your own home. Except most of us do not have large conservatories to do that. And the next best thing? Visit an estate that does.

And so it was that I found my way to the Winterthur Museum and Garden for a special winter tour with some family in tow.  I have been here a few times, usually admiring the world-renowned collection of American furniture and architecture along with the gardens and grounds in spring or summer. This is my first time though, visiting Henry Francis du Pont's purpose-built home and public museum in the midst of winter. While the colors in the garden grounds have turned to a monochromatic green with the various coniferous trees, it's a very different story within the 175-room mansion and museum. 

Detail on Christmas tree

Camellias Christmas tree 

We only got to see a small sliver of these splendid rooms but it was fascinating enough to get a glimpse of how the du Ponts would have entertained their guests during the festive holiday season. Fresh flower arrangements in every room, Christmas wreaths and Christmas trees decked out with dried flower cuttings from the estate or with silk and other faux flowers. And of course, matching upholstery, curtains, and dining china that complement with the flowers, furniture, and artwork in many of the rooms we saw. What a wonderful way to drive away the winter blues!