As July’s sun bathes Long Island in golden warmth, the Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens at Farmingdale State College burst into a kaleidoscope of color and life. This 5+ acre horticultural gem, nestled on the SUNY Farmingdale campus, is a living classroom where students and plants thrive together. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a curious local, or just craving a dose of nature, the Teaching Gardens in July are a vibrant escape. From dazzling annuals to sustainable designs, here’s why this hidden treasure deserves a spot on your summer itinerary.
A Summer Classroom in Full Bloom
Rooted in Farmingdale’s agricultural legacy since 1912, the Teaching Gardens are a hands-on haven for horticulture students in the Department of Urban Horticulture & Design. In July, the gardens pulse with energy as students tend to themed “garden rooms” bursting with summer splendor. The Annual Beds dazzle with vivid zinnias and marigolds, the Perennial Garden hums with pollinators, and the Tropical Garden flaunts lush foliage that transports you to a far-off paradise.
Named for Robert F. Ench, a 1960 alumnus and nursery industry legend, the gardens reflect decades of passion and innovation. Students, guided by expert faculty, experiment with design and cultivation, ensuring every corner—from the Rose Garden’s fragrant blooms to the Dwarf Conifer Collection’s quirky shapes—sparkles under the July sun. It’s a place where learning meets beauty, and visitors reap the rewards.
A Nod to Cherry Blossoms
While the Japanese cherry blossom tree behind the main greenhouse, a quiet star in April, takes a summer siesta, its presence adds a poetic touch to the gardens’ story. This single sakura, alongside weeping Higan cherries, hints at the fleeting springtime magic that gives way to July’s bold palette. Nearby, the Sustainable Garden, with its Japanese-themed entrance, thrives in summer with edible and ornamental plants, showcasing eco-friendly practices that inspire year-round.
Why Visit in July?
July is prime time to explore the Teaching Gardens’ peak summer glory. Stroll the paths to marvel at meticulously curated beds, snap photos of butterflies dancing among blooms, or find inspiration for your own garden. The gardens are open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (April 1–November 1), free of charge, making them a perfect outing for families, students, or anyone needing a nature fix.
Missed the spring plant sale? You can still connect with the gardens’ mission by exploring their interactive plant database on Farmingdale’s website or attending summer open houses, if scheduled. Check with the Urban Horticulture & Design Department for any July events, like workshops or guided tours, that bring the gardens’ story to life.
Plan Your July Visit
Located at 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale, NY, the Teaching Gardens are easy to reach via the north Route 110 entrance, with parking and a free campus shuttle available. Wheelchair-accessible paths ensure everyone can enjoy the sights. Just remember: no pets, picnics, or plant-picking to keep the gardens pristine.
Ready to dive into summer’s green embrace? Visit farmingdale.edu for visitor info and to explore the gardens’ collections online. The Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens in July are a testament to nature’s resilience and the students who nurture it. Come see Long Island’s blooming heart for yourself!