Plants & Horticulture

Pierre du Pont built his first conservatory so he could have oranges in the winter. Although his experiment was not successful, it defines Longwood’s horticultural spirit even today--to make the impossible possible.

Longwood’s team of researchers, growers, display specialists, gardeners, and pest control experts adhere to the highest standards and achieve horticultural feats every day. Today the oranges Mr. du Pont desired actually grow in the Estate Fruit House, chrysanthemums are trained to cascade down the walls, blue poppies adorn the Conservatory in the Spring, clematis bloom in March, and other impossibilities become a reality every day.

Each season, each display offers the visitors a different experience. If you haven’t seen Longwood at all different times of the year, come again. You’ll be surprised at how different the same place can be!

Fall Fantasy in Glass

September 2—November 23

Natural materials form an autumnal backdrop for a dazzling display of hand-blown glass pumpkins and gourds especially crafted for Longwood.


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Chrysanthemum Festival

Thousands of colorful, blooming chrysanthemums flourish in Longwood's palatial Conservatory. New this year, Longwood will delight guests with its largest thousand bloom chrysanthemum ever and other new forms, including rorating cubes of chrysanthemums adorning the Orangery.

Nature's Castles

Just Annouced: Due to popular demand, Nature's Castles staying open past November 23!

The sky's the limit for these spectacular treehouses created by the country's best designers! Let your inner child come out to play in three fantastic creations.


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Open Air Theatre Fountains

Autumn shows through Nov. 23

The Open Air Theatre fountains come alive with musical fountain shows daily! Enjoy 5-minute shows every hour on the hour, from 10:00 am until one hour before Gardens close.


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