Seasonal gardening tips from Gibbs Gardens
Nature’s most spectacular summer bouquet.

By: Barbara Schneider, Gibbs Gardens

Larkspur and poppies attract birds and butterflies to the 15-acre Butterfly Garden.

Each year, Mother Nature—and Jim Gibbs—get to work early, transforming Gibbs Gardens into a spectacular 372-acre bouquet. Flowers of all sizes, shapes and colors bloom everywhere—from fields of poppies and larkspur in the Wildflower Meadow to sweeping rows of magnificent blossoms in the Rose Gardens and Oak Leaf hydrangeas bursting with flowers on the Manor House hillside.

Heirloom roses display their delicate beauty.

Jim Gibbs, owner/developer/designer of Gibbs Gardens, has been creating and caring for his gardens for more than 40 years. Annuals and perennials are planted throughout the gardens—from the unique and inspiring arrangements lining the entrance Flower Bridge to sweeping borders of white caladiums and begonias lining the beds that lead to the Manor House Gardens. Hundreds of Knockout rose bushes in graceful rows of color stretch across acres of vibrant green grass in the Valley’s Rose Gardens.

Iris attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

At the Monet Water Lily Gardens—a favorite spot for photographers—tropical and hardy blooms create magical reflections in the ponds. Gibbs adds new varieties of waterlilies each year.

Hundreds of new plants are blooming at Le Jardin, Gibbs’ intriguing garden of contrasts. New this year, The Secret Garden—a magical place to sit and absorb the magnificence of nature—features elegant displays of vibrant colored flowers and majestic trees.

Seasonal tips for home gardeners

Foxglove plants are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators.

Hayley Davis, Gibbs seasonal color expert, shares some tips for home gardeners.

“Spring has arrived and summer gatherings are just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to refresh your outdoor spaces and give your planters the attention they deserve. A well‑designed container can elevate any patio or porch, but many of us hesitate when choosing the right combination of accent plants, fillers and thrillers. Consider this your guide to building beautiful, full containers with confidence.

“A strong centerpiece sets the tone for the entire arrangement. For a dense, vertical focal point, Kimberly ferns are an excellent choice. They thrive in both full sun and shade, and a large plant can often be divided to fill two containers. Their rich green fronds create height and fullness that instantly enhance any pot. If you prefer even more height and a touch of tropical elegance, a majesty palm is another reliable option. Majesty palms bring graceful movement when the breeze passes through, adding a soft, natural feel to your outdoor décor.

“For fillers, big begonias offer versatility and vibrant color. Available in color variations—pink, red, rose, and white, each with green or bronze foliage—they provide options for every style. Big begonias branch generously throughout the season, giving them the strength to support their blooms without toppling as they grow heavier. Caladiums are another striking addition, offering bold, colorful foliage that adds visual interest. Red Flash, with its deep red tones accented by green and hints of pink, and White Queen, a white and red variety that can read as pink, are two standout performers known for their reliability and beauty. To complete your container, trailing plants bring balance and movement. New Gold lantana, Swedish ivy, Euphorbia Hip Hop and cascade vinca, which come in many colors, are dependable choices that spill gracefully over the edges, softening the overall look and tying the arrangement together.

“The true joy of container gardening lies in its flexibility. These elements can be mixed, matched, and adjusted to suit your personal style. There is no single recipe for the perfect planter, only the one that brings you satisfaction and makes your outdoor space feel complete.”

World-class destination garden

Gibbs Gardens Daffodil Festival was voted No. 1 in America for Best Flower Festival in March 2026 and 2025. This national contest is sponsored by USA Today.

Honored with the National Garden Clubs’ Award of Excellence, Gibbs Gardens has been named one of “The Best Places in the World to See Daffodils” by Flower Magazine; one of “Thirteen Best Botanical Gardens in America” and a top garden in Georgia by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. To learn more about Gibbs Gardens go to gibbsgardens.com.

All photos credit: Bill Howell

All articles are copyrighted and remain the property of the author.

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