143 www. TopTenHomesSo l d. com | www. Bes tofMP. com | www. VOICE for rea l es tate. com Plus, they are functional,” she added, “supporting an array of pollinators including our honeybees, which live in dozens of hives around the property.” In addition to the profusion of perennials, annuals, herbs and antique roses — all of which overwhelm the senses, the plantation will offer a new floral attraction this year surrounding its newly restored cotton gin complex. “We are putting in a landscape of hundreds of native species including historically significant antique roses. We’re delighted that these perimeter plantings will be not only visually striking, but low-maintenance and suited to our climate and ecology. That’s really the icing on the cake,” said Dixon. Across the Cooper River, on the banks of the Ashley River, is another garden-centric site — and a perfect day trip for locals —Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Acknowledged as one of America’s most beautiful gardens, the plantation boasts the nation’s last large-scale romantic-style garden. According to head horticulturist Jim Martin, “Unlike formal gardens in countries such as England and France, which are laid out in man-controlled designs, our gardens are meant for strolling, tranquility and imagination. Soon, we will have azaleas and camellias in full bloom — and the whole plantation will be ablaze in color.” While Magnolia Plantation — with its gardens and mature stands of live oaks and bald cypress trees — evokes the feel of the grand gardens of the 19th century, the beauty of this place is that other portions of its acreage are devoted to cultivating today’s flora. “We do our best to also focus on things that are new and exciting,” Martin added, “including things people could do in their own gardens even without the land, facilities and staffing needed here.” It seems that wherever one turns, the beauty of flowers and trees abounds in the Lowcountry’s grand public gardens. Of course, that doesn’t even begin to count the unique floral accomplishments of thousands of dedicated amateur gardeners up and down our coast. The public gardens have clearly served as role models for the entire landscape of coastal South Carolina. Perhaps this season you will stroll through and become inspired by what is possible when man nurtures nature. hobbies and leisure I ce l and i c Poppi es at Boone Ha l l i n spr i ng. Get the Best Solution forYour Home and Budget. Reliable, upfront service for your home’s A/C, heating, plumbing & gas Make Us Your 1st Choice! BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT 843-518-1479 1stChoiceforAC.com Get the My Choice Service Plan for $158 a Year! THE BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP 5YEARS IN A ROW! Tires • Brakes • Suspension Air Conditioning • General Auto Repairs Scheduled or Preventive Maintenance 412 Coleman Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 843-884-1171 | zipskarkare@gmail.com 2019 ® 2020 ® WWW. BESTOFMP.COM 2023 ®
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