Scheduled for completion in August of 2025, the Ornamental Grassland Gardens at Old World Garden Farms will be a celebration of the beauty, versatility and natural benefits that ornamental grasses can bring to the home landscape.
Scheduled for completion and a grand opening for August 2nd of this summer, the first phase of the Grassland Gardens will feature over 50 different varieties and 3000+ plantings of ornamental grasses – all weaved in among pathways, waterfalls, sitting areas – and hundreds of other deer-resistant annuals, perennial plants, bushes and trees.
The garden area will offer a stunning array of heights, textures, and colors that shift with the seasons. From the soft sway of feather reed grass to the dramatic plumes of switch grass, the 2.5 acre garden will celebrate a living tapestry to captivate the senses and provide a serene retreat for visitors.
More than just a visual delight, the Ornamental Grassland Gardens will also be a sanctuary for wildlife, attracting butterflies, birds, and other pollinators. Its emphasis on native grasses ensures that the garden not only enhances the landscape but is entirely sustainable – being both drought and highly pest resistant.
The Space
The garden area will also feature a three-level waterfall and fountain pool, serving as a focal point and enhancing the tranquil atmosphere while you can take in stunning views of front edge of the 46 acre farm. The soothing sounds of cascading water harmonize with the rustling grasses will create an experience like no other.
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At the heart of this enchanting space will be an outdoor G-scale model train that winds gracefully through the garden. Adding a sense of whimsy and movement, the train will be a delight for guests of all ages as it weaves its way through the lush grasses and artfully designed pathways. The model train, complete with miniature bridges and tunnels, creates a dynamic contrast against the natural beauty of the grasses, making it a unique feature that gives this garden a feel all of its own.
Visitors can relax by the fountain pool’s edge and enjoy the view from the garden’s spacious patio sitting area, which is thoughtfully designed for comfort and relaxation. The patio offers an ideal spot to take in the surrounding beauty, whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee or watching the sunset fade over the horizon.
Among the pathways there will also be several additional sitting areas and sculptures. To add even more color and interest, there will be mass plantings of a collection of unique marigolds, coleus and ornamental hot peppers – all highly deer and drought resistant as well.
In 2026, the Grassland Gardens will continue to expand all over the farm. In early 2026, there are plans to add an atrium/greenhouse in the middle of the Grassland Gardens. It will actually serve a couple of unique purposes for the farm. In late winter and early spring, the greenhouse space will be used to grow all of the annual flowers for the farm from seed. And in the summer? The space will be available for visitors to enjoy or rent for private events.
Our hope is that by 2027, the garden will expand to include even more unique grass displays on the existing 3.5 miles of trails, as well as all around the additional buildings and structures. The long term goal? It is our hope that within 5 years, we can create one of the largest and most unique ornamental grass gardens in the country!