With spring currently in full bloom and summer well on its way, now is the time to get out there and smell some roses. Northern California is home to many notable gardens, like the oldest Japanese garden in the western hemisphere and a 47-acre coastal botanical garden. However, the quaint beauty of this small botanical garden in Carmichael is just as worthy of some attention. The Jensen Botanical Garden is truly a hidden gem so plan to get out there and embark on a garden walk through this little-known oasis sometime soon.
Hiding in the town of Carmichael is a charming little garden known as the Jensen Botanical Garden. Filled with colorful plants and peaceful surroundings, it's a wonderful place for a tranquil summer garden walk.
The quaint 3.5-acre garden was founded by Charles C. Jensen in 1958. After his retirement as a produce buyer, Jensen and his wife moved to Carmichael from Oakland. Their new property already had oaks, coastal redwoods, and blackberry brambles, but Jensen made it his mission to add even more.
Jensen would regularly go back to Oakland and bring back truckloads of different plants and trees. Some of the first plants brought from Oakland included magnolias, azaleas, dogwoods, and Japanese maples.
Jensen even went through the effort of hybridizing, grafting, and acquiring new varieties of plants to make his garden even bigger and better. Those passing by would regularly take notice of Jensen's glorious garden, and Jensen would proudly show it off to anybody who asked.
After his death, the Charles C. Jensen Botanical Garden committee was formed to preserve his beautiful garden. The garden that you see today is truly a paradise, boasting many of the same plants that Jensen himself planted all those years ago, plus many more!
The garden is open from sunrise to sunset every day, and no bikes or sports are allowed. A paved pathway makes it easy to simply lose yourself in the colorful scenery. Additionally, the garden contains a nature path for the blind. By feeling the different textures and smelling the unique fragrances, the visually impaired can also enjoy this beautiful place.
The Jensen Botanical Garden is a unique destination where you can slow down and relax while surrounded by the vibrant scenery. Spring and summer are the perfect time to pay it a visit, so stop by soon.
