Boulder Cottage Gardens

Our History

In 1900, a three bedroom cottage was built on an acre of land surrounded by sprawling fields. Due to the massive pudding stones strewn throughout the property it was aptly named: Boulder Cottage.

We purchased the cottage in 1985. It was in need of landscaping as the yard was over grown with briars, bittersweet, poison ivy and New England bamboo. We spent the first few years clearing the property, establishing a lawn, preserving the boulders and mature trees. Through the love of flowers and plants, the gardens slowly were established as we planted along the foundation of the house and around the puddingstones.

The garden evolved out of the desire to create different spaces that flowed from one to another within the natural contour of the land. Friends who were thinning out their gardens generously passed their plants on to us. With these contributions and our search for new varieties and species the flower beds grew. Eventually, the beds were connected with meandering paths between them. Thus began the creation of our gardens. This led to developing a seating area with a three tier pond with overflowing water, a shade garden with a screened in gazebo, a fire circle pit centered in a large cobble stone paved circle, a quiet meditation area and a cedar post and beam swing shed.

In 1999 we had the opportunity to purchase three acres adjacent to the property. With the addition of this property, our passion for plants and creativity soared. Existing gardens were enlarged and some were moved to new locations. More meandering paths were added, as well as a Zen garden and more nature trails. A parking area and a perennial sales area stocked with plants from our own garden soon followed.

In 2000 we opened our gardens for special occasion photography. Since that time, people have taken advantage of these natural settings to create lasting memories for special occasions including weddings, commitments and anniversaries.

Good luck crossed our path in 2001 and we were able to purchase 17 additional acres. Plants were moved and stone walls were rebuilt to open pathways from the existing gardens into this new area. A dry river bed was added along with two additional ponds, another gazebo covering a bubbling well, and a new garden area we call "The Shire". Trails were developed throughout the woods for nature walks. Boulder Cottage Gardens grew to a twenty-one acre estate with five acres of perennial beds intertwined with magical paths and intimate natural settings nestled within. As our relationship with nature unfolds, the garden continues to grow and change.

We invite you to experience natures' amazing works of art through the magic of our gardens.