In the open shade of this garden, carefully placed small trees and shrubs provide structure along with accents of color with their seasonal blooms. Wildflowers and other perennials seem to light up the ground.
The Shade Garden was the first garden planted in the Reservoir Basin at the WVBG. Originally designed by former Executive Director George Longenecker and planted with the help of several volunteer groups in 2005, this garden was restored in 2017 with the addition of a low stone wall, stairway, and additional plantings. The garden was renamed to honor Mr. Longenecker, and dedicated at a ceremony in September 2017.
The George W. Longenecker Shade Garden is located along the one-way parking loop, near the Education and Event Center, Hammock Haven, and the Rhododendron Garden. The Hillside Trail provides a direct route from the upper parking lot to this garden.