New Jersey is home to a significant amount of greenery, from our farm fields to the evergreens in our Pinelands. Perhaps the prettiest greenery of all is the gorgeous gardens that are scattered around our state. We have several stunners but one stands out for its fascinating history…

Deep Cut Gardens is located in Middletown and is actually part of the Monmouth County Park System.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

The 54-acre garden is open from 8 a.m. - dusk, year-round.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

Dedicated to the home gardener, you’ll find a variety of plants, flowers, trees and shrubs to inspire you.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

The greenhouses are always a delight, filled with tropical plants, cacti and more.

Flickr/Hypnotica Studios Infinite

Their renovated Parterre features 52 varieties of roses with over 180 bushes.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

A favorite among humans, Monarch Butterflies love these gardens, as well.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

You can easily spend an entire day here, exploring the grounds.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

And you’ll find plenty of places to sit, relax, and take everything in.

Flickr/Peter Miller

You may be surprised to learn that the grounds were once the private estate of mob boss, Vito Genovese.He also had a home on the property, but it mysteriously burned down a few weeks after he fled to Naples, Italy to avoid indictment.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

Now, the gardens are free for anyone to enjoy and offer unique programs and activities.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

Families will love the “Garden Safari Backpacks.” Each includes supplies to help you discover new ways of seeing the living and non-living features of the gardens. They are free to use, you’ll just need to leave your license with the docent. Deep Cut Gardens also has some great activities coming up including Great Spring Perennial Plant Swap on April 21st and an open house with tours and talks from May 11-13 – both are free. Visit the gardens at: 152 Red Hill Road, Middletown.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

Flickr/Hypnotica Studios Infinite

Flickr/Peter Miller

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