Malvern -- Longview Farm

This 17-acre site has been under continuous development by the same individual since 1942. Immediately surrounding the farm's four buildings are a series of small garden rooms. Some of these are level, while others follow the natural slope of the land. A simple underlying architecture ties together the gardens and buildings. Plants soften the hard edges while grass paths and stone or brick steps connect the spaces. The continuation of these paths leads to and through a former vegetable garden and island beds. These larger areas are filled with mass plantings of perennials, both exotic and native. Shrubs, along with an occasional tree, build up the centers of the beds. Their fruits provide fall and winter color. The garden's perimeter is made up of a meadow and woods (part native, part planted to screen a highway). More paths lead into the woods, creating island spaces where shrubs, ground covers, and ferns have been added or natives encouraged. The bulk of the plants are perennials, chosen for hardiness and ease of culture. Many provide more than one season of interest. Bulbs are used throughout the beds and borders and are naturalized in the meadow and woods. Biennials are allowed to self seed throughout. It is a country garden with order and chaos in equal measure.

Persons associated with the garden include: the Kugler family (former owners, before 1780-early 20th century); and George Reed (former owner, 1942-1982).