Far Hills -- Bittersweet Hill

The home of John J. and Martha Virginia McEwan Gaerste, Bittersweet Hill was a country estate that afforded Virginia Gaerste ample opportunity to develop her two-acre garden with plantings for year-round interest. Pear and apple trees from an old orchard added a picturesque note to rolling lawns, while close to the house a brick terrace enclosed by yews served as an entrance court and outdoor dining area. Garden borders and beds featured a variety of perennials including lilies, delphiniums, roses, clematis, and peonies. Hedges defined space while not preventing the eye from gazing on views of adjacent woodlands and hills. Spring flowering bulbs were planted throughout, under trees and against walls to heighten their artistic appeal. Other garden features included a small herb garden near the kitchen, a cutting garden, and a vegetable garden. Because of the large number of images and their comparatively early date this was probably one of Molly Adams first major garden shoots; she is also credited with bringing the garden to the attention of Popular Gardening's editors.

Persons associated with the garden include John J. Gaerste and Martha Virginia McEwan Gaerste (former owners, ca. 1955-1975).