Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden at Callaway Gardens

Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden is a welcoming site with its seven and a half acres flowing with juicy vegetables, blossoming wildflowers, soothing herbs, and mouthwatering fruit. Particularly alluring is the southern feel that overcomes visitors upon entering the garden. This atmosphere is what provided the setting for the popular television show, The Victory Garden, that aired on PBS. What a thrill to enter a famous garden!

Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden was one of the last major projects developed by Cason J. Callaway before his passing. The garden was named in his memory and now lives on in the mind of all who enter. The gardens demonstrate scientific, educational, and practical applications for growing fruits and vegetables. The test plots might even inspire visitors to try new methods in their own garden.

Learn more at their website: http://www.callawaygardens.com/gardens/woodland/vegetable-garden.aspx

The vegetable garden hosts more than 400 varieties of crops. The crops grown include some of the traditional as well as southern favorites. The varieties chosen are selected for their visual appeal, quality, and succulent flavor. The vigorous plants are cared for by Callaway employees and the best produce is selected to be sold in the Callaway store and restaurant. There is nothing better than fresh fruits and vegetables grown with care and love!

  

I found the tomato plot especially interesting. Wooden polls and wire was used to host up the bushy tomatoes. This provided support and guidance to keep plants from trailing along the grounds. 

 

Muscadine grapes were beginning to develop fruit when we arrived in July. Grapes are ready to pick in the fall for use as jellies, sauces, pies, and wine that is after competition with birds! This variety is native to the south and thrives in regions with mild winters. It grows in the wild and benefits from a supportive trellis.

Our last stop was to the Victory Garden South. The shed within the garden doubles as the Vegetable Garden Shop in the summer and at intervals during the spring and fall.

Vegetable scraps and organic matter is recycled into nutritious compost. This is truly inspirational to all fellow organic gardens or those who inspire to in the future. Compost feeds the roots therefore producing healthy plants and produce. Never underestimate the power of compost in the garden. Plus its free!

Elizabeth’s Traveling Tips: I suggest bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, shade hat or an umbrella during the summer.