Bassett Trace Nature Trail
Trailhead located in the Griffin Hotel parking lot, Gold Wing.
Take a quiet step into nature along the Bassett Trace Nature Trail, where towering trees, gentle paths, and birdsong create a peaceful escape from the everyday. Whether you’re seeking a reflective walk or a moment of calm, this hidden gem offers beauty, tranquility, and a chance to reconnect with the natural world right here in Colonial Williamsburg. Read more about Bassett Trace Nature Trail.
James City County/Williamsburg Extension Master Gardeners Provide Expert Gardening Help
Looking to grow healthier plants, solve stubborn lawn problems, or make your landscape more sustainable? This summer, the James City County Williamsburg (JCCW) Master Gardeners will be out in the community at local farmers markets in Williamsburg, Toano, and New Kent County—ready to answer questions, diagnose plant issues, and share research-based gardening solutions.
From soil testing kits and pest management tips to information on home visit programs, workshops, and demonstration gardens, their booth is a one-stop resource for homeowners who want to garden smarter.
Check the Events Calendar or download the 2026 Farmers Market Schedule to find out when they’ll be near you—and don’t miss the short video introduction to see how Master Gardeners can support your yard, garden, and landscape all season long. For more information Click Here
The Real Magic Is Starting with Seeds
Growing vegetables, herbs and flowers from seeds may keep our minds sharp, our bodies healthy, and our environment more sustainable. It may even be a small gesture towards world peace. Gardening won’t solve all of our problems and worries, but it certainly can bring us happiness. Every positive thing we do makes this world a better place. Learn the secrets of growing plants from seeds.
Why Bother with Bulbs?
Before the grass turns green, before the trees clothe themselves in new leaves, we know that the daffodils will bloom one chilly, late winter day. Daffodils and Crocus, Galanthus, Scilla, and miniature Iris; all of these tiny, jewel-like flowers will emerge, magically, from a handful of dry, unimpressive bulbs. Read more
The Beauty and Promise of Trees in Winter
There is a special beauty in the form and structure of a bare tree after it has dropped its annual crop of leaves. Like the beauty of a classical statue, one can see the truth of its bones. Leaves, for all of their movement and color, veil the beauty of branches and buds. Looking at a bare tree is a study in pure potential. Read More Here
Plant Literacy
Anyone who loves plants will find it useful to build a repertoire of knowledge about common plants that grow well in our area. No one expects you to be able to name and describe every single plant you encounter, but it is helpful to know a few. Learn about how plants are named and categorized, and find lists of common plants that gardeners should know. Learn more here
Unlocking the Secrets of Plant Species Names
The Secret Lives of Roots
Every productive gardener cultivates an appreciation for the (mostly) secret lives of roots. Roots are the foundation that supports most plant life. They are the vascular system that supports all other plant functions, and the key to all plant reproduction. Read More...
Early Spring Gardening-
February is the perfect time of year for frugal gardeners to get a head start on the coming season. Winter’s garden magazines and catalogs offer a preview of new cultivars hitting the market. We weigh the merits of melons, tomatoes, zinnias and dahlias, working the mental puzzle of what might fit where. Online marketers become our best garden ‘pen pals’ with daily temptations. Learn how you can get a head start on the growing season ahead. Read more here
How Do You Bathe in a Forest?
Have you ever wondered about the practice of forest bathing? It is one of several recent eco-prescriptions to help us heal what ails us and adapt to the stresses of contemporary life. When we visit the forest with an open heart and open mind, the trees can also help us ameliorate the stress of our modern lives. They can help us achieve balance. Learn more about the simple practice of forest bathing.
Holly, King of the Winter Forest
Williamsburg area woods light up with evergreen holly trees as other leaves fall. It is their time to sparkle in the winter sunshine. From pre-history until today, the Holly King rules the forest during the dark half of the year. The holly and oak ruled the forests for those following the old ways in European Celtic cultures. Learn more here...
Making a Healing Garden
Sometimes we all need a place to get away from the noise of our daily lives to find some peace. We want a place to relax, to heal, to reconnect with the natural world, and to dream of a better future for ourselves and our loved ones. Our outdoor spaces can provide us with peace, healing, sanctuary, and inspiration when we design them with these intentions. Read more
A Winter Wildlife Garden
You can enjoy a variety of birds and other wildlife in your yard through the winter by providing for their needs. Animals search for reliable food sources, shelter from the weather, and a source of fresh water. They want a sense of security, and can sense a welcoming spirit in the garden. Learn more here
Oh, Deer!
Virginia's population of deer has grown exponentially as deer adapted to living among people and as hunting has declined. Deer now cause a wide range of problems. Their impact prevents the normal regeneration of woodland plant species and destroys food sources and habitat for wild birds and other animal and insect species. Learn more about how you can help here.
Garden Questions?
Zone Change!
Click to enlarge the photo
The USDA has updated the Plant Hardiness Zone map and we're now in zone 8A. The trend reveals a picture of how many parts of our country are warming. Read more ...
Native Tree Guide
Which Tree Should I Plant? This guide was produced by the Upper and Middle James Riparian Consortium to educate Virginians about the woody native plants of our riparian areas. Access the guide here.
Native Plant Guide
This guide showcases many attractive variety of plants native to Southeast Virginia, which includes the Hampton Roads region. It includes information about how each plant supports wildlife. Read more here...