Botanical Garden In Montclair Makes ‘Best In America’ List

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A historic botanical garden in Montclair recently landed on a list of the 200 “Best Public Gardens in America” for 2023.

Presby Memorial Iris Gardens came in at number 191 on Good Plant Care’s list, which surveyed 3,000 people and can be seen here. According to the list’s creators:

“Presby Memorial Iris Gardens is a historic botanical garden located in Montclair. The garden covers over six acres and is home to more than 14,000 iris plants, making it one of the largest iris gardens in the world. The garden was established in 1927 as a memorial to Frank H. Presby, a prominent horticulturist and founder of the American Iris Society. The garden also features several walking paths, a reflecting pool, and a gazebo, as well as a museum and gift shop.”

Another Essex County location, Greenwood Gardens – a public garden and historic estate located in Short Hills – ranked 26th-highest on the list.

Other top spots in New Jersey included Rutgers Gardens in New Brunswick (#29), Willowwood Arboretum in Chester Township (#143), Skylands New Jersey Botanical Garden in Ringwood (#167), and Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown Township (#188).

The top public garden in the United States, according to Good Plant Care? Koko Crater Botanical Garden in Hawaii.

“Visiting public gardens is a timeless pastime that continues to be popular for many reasons,” said Tina Ho of Good Plant Care.

“These green spaces provide a respite from our busy lives and a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful, tranquil setting,” Ho said. “In an increasingly digital age, public gardens offer a way to unplug and unwind, and to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural world firsthand.”

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