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HGTV recently named its 50 most beautiful gardens in every U.S. state, and a peaceful Mississippi retreat with trails that let you get up close with nature made the cut.
It’s less about a strict ranking and more about encouraging people to check out hidden gems near them.
“There are countless places to see unique, well-curated and even awe-inspiring gardens — maybe even in your own backyard,” HGTV wrote.
Where does HGTV call the most beautiful garden in Mississippi?
HGTV calls Crosby Arboretum in Picayune “a 700-acre love letter to Mississippi’s native landscapes.” The gardens include several kinds of ecosystem with native plants that help the Magnolia State’s wildlife thrive.
“The arboretum’s Pinecote Pavilion — a modernist wooden structure that seems to float above a pond — has become an architectural icon,” HGTV wrote.
About Crosby Arboretum
The Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune, is managed by the Mississippi State University Extension Office. The facility is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and the last admission is at 4 p.m.
The portion in Picayune is 104 acres, and the arboretum maintains another seven natural areas, according to the website. The areas include forests, savannahs and bogs in Lamar, Pearl River and Hancock counties that bring the total acreage to 700 with more than 300 plant species.
The interpretive center is surrounded by biodiversity. There are 13 trails, including one for children, that will lead you around a pitcher plant bog. There are another two ponds on site, including one with the iconic Pinecote Pavilion. Walk through a Gulf Coast savanna and see a young-growth forest.
The areas highlight specific Mississippi habitats, and the pollinator garden shows the importance of bees, hummingbirds and other insects and animals that help keep ecosystems healthy.
Plan your visit to Crosby Arboretum
A wristband is required for entry. According to the website, admission is $5 for adults; $4 for military and senior citizens; and $2 for kids 12 and younger. Members get in free.
Staff-guided tours can be arranged Wednesday through Friday by reservation at least two weeks in advance. There’s a minimum of 10 people and a maximum of 75. Otherwise, tours are self-guided. Check the website for additional pricing information: crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu/tours.
Check the events calendar for special events at: crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu/events-page.
It’s closed Mondays and Tuesdays and the following holidays:
New Year’s DayThanksgivingChristmas EveChristmas DayNew Year’s Eve
Contributing: Jennifer Lindahl, Vanessa Countryman
Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with Gannett/USA Today. Email her at bbolden@gannett.com.
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