A Trip to Logee's Greenhouses

    If you live anywhere in the New England region and have an interest in growing tropical plants, then you know all about Logee's Greenhouses.  Established in the late 1800's, this tropical wonderland is located in the unassuming town of Danielson, CT.

    Upon entering the plain building you will be swept away in the magic that surrounds this place.  As you walk to the back of the small retail area you will get your first glimpse into the greenhouses.  When you descend the stairs into the "Long House" you will be hit with sweet smells, the sound of a trickling fountain, and your eyes will not be able to rest as you try to take it all in.

Your first glance into the greenhouse will bring a smile to your face.

    The isles are narrow and the plants will reach out to 'grab' you, but that is all part of the charm of wandering through the 100+ year old greenhouses.  Begonias to the right and mixed tropicals to the left.....where to start?

Pachystachys lutea look like lollipops!

Passiflora Coccinea is just plain stunning!

Thunbergia grandiflora is a fast growing vine that loves to flower!

 
    As you wind your way through the various greenhouses you'll find many delights including an ancient lemon tree nicknamed the "American Wonder Lemon" (Citrus limon 'Ponderosa') that bears 5LB lemons.  You'll also see flowers in colors you didn't think were posible in the natural world like the flowers of the "Jade Vine" (Strongyloden macrobotrys).

 The amazing "Jade Vine" with its seemingly unreal color grows in the "Fern House".

    You are guaranteed to be surprised by the many large specimens that thrive under glass cover in zone 5 Connecticut and will be inspired to try your hand at growing them on your windowsills or in your greenhouse.

A bench of lusty Passion Flowers for sale is surrounded by many mature specimens.

Scutellaria constaricana is a flaming red ever-bloomer sure to steal your heart!

    I always save the "Big House" for last.  It is indeed the biggest greenhouse open to the public and is markedly cooler than the others.  Huge trees and shrubs tower into the highest part of the glass.  It is truly like entering another world.

Clivia miniata loves the cool environment of the "Big House"

     
    When you finally are able to peel yourself out of the greenhouses (you will undoubtedly not want to leave) your arms will be heavy with all of your new 'babies'.  Truly a memorable experience awaits you in Northeast Connecticut!

Medinilla magnifica produces spectacular umbels of pink flowers.

 
    For more information on Logee's Greenhouses, visit their website: http://www.logees.com/