While most of us are familiar with the elegant homes, or “Painted Ladies” of Cape May, you may not be aware of the outside dressing that goes with them. The Victorian gardens of Cape May, NJ, are particularly stunning in the spring and summer months, as the showy blooms set off the cheerfully colored gables and architectural angled roofs.
Take some time between strolls along the beach to walk past some of the elegant homes on Perry, Jackson, Decatur, and Ocean Streets. These remarkable buildings have been lovingly restored to their original grandeur.
Traditional Elements of a Victorian Garden
If you are a history buff, you are familiar with the many cultural changes during the Victorian era (1837-1902). As industrialization increased, so did more leisure time for the middle class. Their property reflected their social status, so gardens moved away from the realm of kitchen gardens to supply food.
Many porches were essential for the homes, and trellises and vine plantings, such as morning glories, provided shade and privacy. Elaborate wrought iron fences enclosed the yard, creating private spaces with sitting areas.
Seed catalogs were invented, and many plants were brought from exotic places. Lawns were added in the front and back of the home, with space for entertaining and lawn games.
Favorite Plantings for Victorian Gardens
Island Beds
Island beds are creations in the middle of lawn space, filled with low-level colorful annuals. The plantings create a geometric design or highlight new or unusual plants.
Urns
Plants in containers, particularly urns, were another way to spotlight specific plants. Victorians were highly fond of ferns and giant lilies.
Topiaries
Precisely cut hedges and green shrubs trimmed to elaborate shapes were another way to highlight garden areas and emphasize the owner’s status.
Flowers and Shrubberies
Victorians favored the following flowers and shrubs in their gardens:
- Roses
- Lilacs
- Mock Orange
- Snowball Hydrangea
- Petunias
- Dahlias
- Geraniums
- Pansies
- Morning glories
- Sweet peas
- Coleus
Where to See Victorian Gardens in Cape May
The Gardens of Cape May Tour
If you are looking for specific sites to visit and experience the charm of Victorian gardens, you should attend The Gardens of Cape May Tour. It is a self-guided tour from noon to 4 p.m. in June, including sites within the Cape May climate. A trolley will be available.
Your ticket includes touring the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, with garden-related vendors and a complimentary wine tasting. Ensure you allow adequate time to visit the interior of the mansion and the garden.
Other Sites to Visit
If the garden tour date doesn’t fit with your schedule, make sure that you meander over to these excellent examples and see how the landscaping complements the architecture:
- The Christopher Gallagher House (45 Jackson St.)
- The Southern Mansion (720 Washington St.)
- The Pink Cottage (12 Jackson St)
The entire Cape May Historic District is brimming with spectacular homes in various styles. Find your favorite!
Off the Beaten Path
If you want to see a garden and experience something unusual, book a tour at the Sperlak Gallery and Sculpture Garden. It combines a farm, nature sanctuary, and sculpture garden. The gallery is in an Amish barn, and the 120+ sculptures are scattered on 37 acres. Check the website for classes and events held throughout the year.
Gardens, Buildings, and Beaches, Oh My!
After seeing the historic homes and wandering around the Victorian Gardens of Cape May, it is clear that Cape May is much more than a beach town. We take pride in our history, including a Harriet Tubman Museum, a re-created 19th-century village, and many events at the Emlen Physick Estate.
We do have spectacular beaches and dozens of superb and varied restaurants. With all of these natural attractions, you will want to plan for more than a day! Reserve your weekend or week-long stay at our historic hotel, just steps away from the beach and downtown.
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