NOR THEA S T New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, Boylston BAY STATE BLOOMS Massachusetts abounds with horticultural hot spots BY MICHAEL MCLAUGHLIN W 68 MAY 2023 ith diverse topography and climate from the Berkshires to the bay, Massachusetts has dozens of managed green spaces that invite groups to discover a world of manicured landscapes and historic arboretums. The state's horticultural heritage began in the 19th century, when Frederick Law Olmsted (known as the " Father of American Landscape Architecture " ) was recruited by the City of Boston to design a 7-mile series of green spaces for its citizens. The result of Olmsted's visionary work is now known as Boston's Emerald Necklace, with each " jewel " being a green oasis ringing the city center. On the edge of Boston Common, the Public Garden has welcomed city dwellers and visitors since 1837, when it became America's first public botanical garden. Decorative displays of colorful flowers and varietals of roses blossom in ornamental beds. Visitors meandering the paths enjoy the shade of stately elms and other imported trees. Weeping willows touch the shores of the central lagoon popularized in " Make Way for Ducklings, " the 1941 children's picture book by Robert McCloskey. Each summer, the pond is populated with a flock of swan boats, and groups can't resist a ride. PHOTO NEW ENGLAND BOTANIC GARDEN AT TOWER HILL