'Even one flower can be inspiring': How a Wilmington-area garden earned national honors

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina in Willard recently earned the prestigious designation of Proven Winners Signature Garden.

Proven Winners is a global plant brand that introduces the industry's leading annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and houseplants to the market through a network of top propagators.

This designation makes the Pender County facility one of Proven Winners' 11 most high-profile properties in the United States.

What is The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina?

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina is a nonprofit botanical garden, encompassing more than 300 acres in collaboration with Johnson Nursery. The Gardens also offers nature trails, waterways and wooded areas. Besides being a botanical garden, it is also an event space, hosting such events as galas, workshops and the annual Southern Lights Holiday Light Display.

What is the Signature Garden?

The Signature Garden certification is awarded to high-profile properties that demonstrate a strict set of criteria including high visibility, demographic synergies and a commitment to quality landscape presentation. Visitor traffic and revenues are enhanced by improved guest interest, garden tours, more event opportunities, and visitor appreciation.

How does this certification benefit The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina?

"Our mission statement is 'Improving Lives by Cultivating Inspiration,'" said Gardens founder David Johnson. "Even one flower can be inspiring, and we believe The Gardens will be extremely inspirational."

The goal is to find the best plants for Eastern North Carolina.

"With this in mind, we value the Proven Winner Signature Garden as a great place to evaluate and display the number one plant brand in the industry," Johnson said. The gardens showcase annuals, perennials, and shrubs and many new cultivars that Proven Winners offer each year.

When is The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina open?

The Gardens, located at 985 Johnson Nursery Road in Willard, is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Gardens is enjoyed by people within the horticulture industry, garden clubs, garden enthusiasts and families. For more information, visit The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina.