Longwood Gardens, Inc.

Longwood Gardens, Inc. is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization founded by Pierre S. du Pont to manage and operate one of the world's premier botanical gardens, Longwood Gardens.

Overview

Longwood Gardens spans over 1,100 acres in the Brandywine Creek Valley, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The property was initially acquired by the Peirce family in about 1700 and later transformed into a horticultural paradise by Pierre S. du Pont in 1906. Under his stewardship, the gardens evolved into a renowned center for horticulture, conservation, and education.

History

Pierre S. du Pont acquired the property primarily to preserve the trees from logging. Over the years, he expanded the gardens through the purchase of adjacent properties, creating a comprehensive horticultural display garden. The gardens were opened to the public in 1921, and in 1937, du Pont established the Longwood Foundation to ensure the garden's continuation after his passing. The foundation gained tax-exempt status in 1946, solidifying Longwood Gardens' role as a public institution focused on education, exhibition, and enjoyment.

Features

• Horticultural Displays: Longwood features an extensive variety of native and exotic plant species, with 11,000 different plant types across its grounds.
• Conservatory Gardens: The gardens include 1.6 acres of glass-enclosed conservatories housing 13 indoor gardens.
• Fountains and Water Features: Notable water features include the Italian Water Garden and the revitalized Main Fountain Garden.
• Events and Programs: Longwood hosts numerous events, including flower shows, concerts, educational lectures, and children's programs.

Education and Conservation

Longwood Gardens is dedicated to advancing horticultural education and conservation. It offers a tuition-free two-year school of professional horticulture and various internship and fellowship programs. The organization also engages in global plant exploration and horticultural research in collaboration with other institutions.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Longwood Gardens has expanded its reach through strategic initiatives like the acquisition of Longwood at Granogue, a 505-acre cultural landscape in Delaware. The organization remains committed to innovation, conservation, and community engagement, ensuring its legacy as a model horticultural institution.