The Need For Mead

A Botanical Oasis

By Eryn Reddell Wingert

Despite an overcast sky with an impending spring rain shower, the drive into the Mead Botanical Garden is an immediate relaxing experience. Giant hanging stags horn and bright red bromeliad greet visitors at the entrance with the promise of more lush fauna to come. The natural habitat nestled in the city of Winter Park is an oasis, a departure from sandy beaches and marsh waterways. It is lush, but in a different way from marshlands and wetlands. The Mead landscape is more serene, more inviting towards a sense of calm, welcoming you with meandering paths and thoughtful landscaping. The Mead Botanical Garden was dedicated in 1940 in honor of renowned horticulturist, Theodore L. Mead. The community of Winter Park enthusiastically welcomed the addition with open arms. And, with good reason. The park is a showplace of flora and fauna. The 48-acre oasis includes: Alice’s Pond, a community garden, greenhouses, Lake Lillian Marsh, forested wetlands, a butterfly garden, and an amphitheater with Howel Creek bordering along the edge. Mead developed an expansive collection of amaryllis, bromeliads, palms, ferns among many other plants - with a primary focus was orchids. In addition to a dedicated focus on research, hybridization, and germinating various plants - primarily orchids - Theodore Mead was a committed naturalist and entomologist. The ornamental gardens, nature paths, and palm fencing are a part of his legacy stemming from Mead’s dedication to horticulture. The park carries on his work in all aspects. The study and research of his collection continues today in the grounds and greenhouses of the Mead Botanical Garden. The Mead Botanical Garden is open daily from dawn until dusk and is free to visitors. Visit meadgarden.org to plan your visit and learn more about the events and programs available.

Giant stag horn adorn trees and hanging hooks at the entrance to the Mead Botanical Garden. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)

A spring rainstorm descends on Alice’s Pond. (Eryn Reddell Wingert) Bromeliads were one of many plant species in Theodore L. Mead’s vast collection. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)

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