Spending time in nature has been proven to provide mental and emotional health benefits, and according to the American Psychological Association, can also improve cognitive abilities. But you don’t have to live in close proximity to hiking or walking trails to spend time enjoying the natural beauty surrounding us; instead, try visiting a local public garden.

This week we’re celebrating National Public Gardens Week, observed annually beginning the Friday before Mother’s Day. Public gardens have provided green space for urban areas and town spaces for ages, although the official recognition of the week, established by the American Public Gardens Association, didn’t occur till 2009.

Public gardens include botanic gardens, arboreta, zoos, universities, and museums, and encourage visitors. There are a number of public gardens in Maryland and the Md Department of Tourism provides a list of 15 in the state that people can visit. 

If you’re interested in more than just visiting a garden and you’re thinking about creating your own, check out the University of Maryland Extension Home and Garden Information Center for help getting started!