James and Ellen Best’s Sara Stein Garden
Pound Ridge, NY
About
This ecological restoration by Sara Stein, the native plant pioneer, spans 5-1/2 acres and includes upland and wetland meadows, woodlands, and thickets. Documenting her planting experiences in her books (Noah’s Garden, Planting Noah’s Garden, My Weeds), she included many native species important to wildlife but not often used in landscaping. Other features include a stone terrace planted with grasses and sedges, an herb garden within openings in a brick patio, and a planted moss garden and path around the pond. There are numerous paths through the various habitats, all showing a viable, sustainable alternative to the conventional suburban landscape design. Ellen and James Best acquired the property in 2007 and have been maintaining it since then.
This garden’s estimated size is 5-1/2 acres.
2025 Open Day: Saturday, June 7
Hours: 10-2
A Digging Deeper entitled "A Rose is Never Just a Rose - Plants in Community" will also be presented on Saturday, June 7.
Please note: This Open Day's date has been changed from Saturday, June 28 to Saturday, June 7 since the publication of the 2025 Open Days Directory.
Location
James and Ellen Best’s Sara Stein Garden
Westchester County
Pound Ridge, NY 10576
Features
- Fruit/vegetables
- Garden structure/sculpture
- Historic garden
- Meadow
- Substantial native plants
- Water feature
- Woodland/shade garden
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Nature Friendly
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Photography Allowed
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