The Garden Conservancy is a leading nonprofit organization working to preserve, share, and celebrate America's gardens and diverse gardening traditions. Through national programs, strategic partnerships, and public engagement, the Conservancy raises awareness of the vital role gardens play in the country’s cultural, historical, and environmental fabric. The organization is based in Garrison, New York.[1]
Since its establishment in 1989, the Garden Conservancy has supported the preservation of more than 100 significant gardens across the United States and developed a range of public programs to promote education and engagement with gardening. Its initiatives focus on helping both emerging and established gardens thrive as long-term community assets, drawing on expertise in design, restoration, and garden management.[1]
Among its signature programs is Open Days, the country’s largest private garden visiting initiative. Since 1995, Open Days has provided public access to more than 4,500 privately owned gardens in over 40 states. The program was profiled by The New York Times in 2024, which noted its role in broadening public access to gardens not typically open to visitors.[2]
The Conservancy was founded by Francis H. Cabot, who was inspired to create the organization after visiting Ruth Bancroft’s dry garden in Walnut Creek, California. The visit led to the recognition of a broader need to protect privately owned gardens with horticultural or design significance.[3]
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