Moore Farms Botanical Garden may be the state’s best‑kept secret, but there’s no better place to celebrate the change of seasons.
Photo by Moore Farms Botanical Garden
Situated in the northeastern Pee Dee region just west of Lake City, Moore Farms Botanical Garden may be one of the state’s best-kept secrets.
A burgeoning botanical oasis with 65 cultivated acres of lush gardens, pine forests and emerald-green pastures, the garden is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.—but only during tours that must be booked in advance, says marketing manager Haley Hughes.
The reason? The garden is a passion project of philanthropist and investor Darla Moore, who still lives on the land that was once her family’s farm. “Because we respect her privacy, we respectfully ask that you call to make an appointment for a guided tour,” Hughes says.
The garden is also open during special events and festivals, including the season-opening day cheekily coined Bulbapalooza—a rare chance to see one of the state’s most impressive botanical gardens blossoming into spring.
During my family’s visit to Bulbapalooza 2021, the garden enveloped us in a tranquil state of natural bliss as soon as we turned off New Zion Road and onto the winding gravel driveway. Deciduous and evergreen trees flanked the route, and to the left we could glimpse the pristine Swimming Pond with garden art sprouting up from the surrounding grass.
We were ushered to park on a fresh field, and from there, photo ops with blooming plants presented themselves along the way as we checked in and entered the garden at the Fire Tower and Visitor Center. Our self-guided tour commenced in the enchanted alley commonly referred to as Pine Bay, mimicking a natural pine savanna typical to the Carolinas.
The first stop was to the Vegetable Garden. Buds popping in the beds were a sure sign that spring was near. The Formal Garden followed, with its water fountain adorned with daffodils as the focal point. Next came the Bog Garden, showcasing carnivorous plants native to the Carolinas. There was not a lot of action in the Bog on this day; however, when in full bloom, many cute, bucket-like pitcher plants are out on display, catching water and live insects to feast on.
Continuing our tour, we traversed a lovely wooden walking path lined with crepe myrtles dripping with Spanish moss. This landed us back on the gravel path leading to one of my favorite spots on the grounds, the Spring House. A thatched roof hut calling on Moore’s travels through Asia, its revolving doors and wicker chairs beckoned weary visitors to sit and stay awhile. We took the opportunity for repose and to enjoy the gentle breeze.
Enchanted Moore Farms Botanical Garden is well worth the trip. Guided tours can be pre-arranged for a nominal fee of $10 per person. Other annual events include the May Days plant sale (scheduled for May 15), the only day when visitors can purchase plants directly from the nursery. The Beer Fest, scheduled for Sept. 18, is the largest annual program, typically drawing a crowd of 700, says Shady Rodgers, director of events and education. For a complete roster of upcoming events, visit the garden website.
True to the garden’s mission “to promote research and education in horticulture, agriculture and forestry for the benefit of the people of South Carolina and beyond,” Rodgers says the proceeds from ticketed events support Lake City community organizations. “It’s very special, and a part of Ms. Moore’s contribution.”
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Get There
Moore Farms Botanical Garden is located at 100 New Zion Road in Lake City.
Hours: Open by appointment Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and during special events.
Admission: $10 per person for tours. Ticket prices vary for annual events. For a complete roster of upcoming events, visit moorefarmsbg.org/featured-events.
Getting around: Most of the garden is wheelchair accessible with some areas requiring assistance. Golf carts can be provided with prior notice. Garden visits are approximately 2 hours in length. Pets are not allowed.
Details: (843) 210-7582; moorefarmsbg.org.