Poston Gardens

If you want a fun and educational way to spend a day in Waxahachie, Texas, you should check out Poston Gardens. This fantastic attraction features over one million tulips in various colors and shapes, creating a stunning spectacle that will delight your senses. But Poston Gardens is more than just a beautiful place to visit. It is also a social enterprise that supports a noble cause: providing independent living opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Poston Gardens, from its history and facts to its tips and benefits for visitors.

History

Poston Gardens was founded by John Poston, a successful businessman and philanthropist with a son with Down syndrome. John wanted to create a place where his son and other adults with special needs could live, work, learn, and socialize in a safe and supportive environment. He was inspired by the example of Daymark Living, a residential community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Waxahachie. John decided to partner with Daymark Living and donate the proceeds from his tulip farm to support their mission.

Poston Gardens opened in 2019 as the largest tulip farm in Texas, attracting thousands of visitors who enjoyed picking their flowers and learning about the Dutch culture. The farm also employed residents from Daymark Living, giving them a chance to earn income and develop skills. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Poston Gardens had to close its doors to the public, but it still donated over 100,000 tulips to local hospitals, nursing homes, and churches. In 2021, Poston Gardens reopened with enhanced safety measures and new features, such as live music, food trucks, and photo opportunities.

Facts about tulips

Tulips are one of the most popular and beloved flowers in the world, especially in the Netherlands, with a long and rich history. Here are some interesting facts about these flowers that you may not know:

• Tulips belong to the lily family and have over 150 species and 3,000 varieties.
• Tulips come in almost every color imaginable except for pure blue. Some tulips have two or more colors, creating patterns like stripes, flames, or feathers.
• Tulips can change color depending on the soil conditions, temperature, and sunlight exposure. They can also “blush” when they are stressed or excited.
• Tulips have a short lifespan, lasting only 3-7 days after being cut. However, they can continue to grow up to an inch in a vase.
• Tulips are edible and have been used as food in times of famine. They can also be used to make wine, jam, and salad.

The importance of flora for the people

Flowers are not only beautiful to look at. They also have many benefits for our physical and mental health. Here are some of the ways that flowers can improve our well-being:

• Flowers can reduce stress and anxiety by creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere. They can also lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels.
• Flowers can boost mood and happiness by triggering positive emotions and memories. They can also increase social interaction and communication.
• Flowers can enhance memory and cognition by stimulating the brain and improving concentration. They can also increase creativity and productivity.
• Flowers can promote healing and recovery by providing natural aromatherapy and reducing pain and inflammation. They can also improve immune system function and prevent infections.

What can you learn there?

Poston Gardens is not only a place to enjoy nature’s beauty but also a place to learn about different cultures and topics. Here are some of the things that you can learn there:

• You can learn about the Dutch culture and heritage by admiring the tulips, the national symbol of the Netherlands. You can also learn about the history of tulip mania, a period of economic speculation and frenzy over tulip bulbs in the 17th century.
• You can learn about horticulture and botany by observing the different types of tulips, their characteristics, and their growing conditions. You can also learn about the best practices for planting, caring for, and harvesting tulips.
• You can learn about social entrepreneurship and philanthropy by supporting Poston Gardens’ mission of providing independent living opportunities for adults with IDD. You can also learn about the challenges and achievements of Daymark Living residents who work at the farm.

Tips for visitors

If you are planning to visit Poston Gardens, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable:

• Check the website or social media pages for updates on opening hours, admission prices, special events, and weather conditions.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on dirt paths and grass fields. Consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring a camera or a smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery and moments. You can also use the hashtag #postongardens to share your photos and videos on social media.
• Bring cash or a credit card to pay for your admission, parking, food, and flowers. You can also donate to support Poston Gardens’ cause.
• Bring a basket or a bag to collect your tulips. You can pick as many as you want for $1 each. You can also buy pre-picked bouquets at the gift shop.

Are there any rules?

Yes, there are some rules that you need to follow to respect the farm and its staff:

• Do not step on or damage the tulips or other plants. Stay on the designated paths and areas.
• Do not bring pets, alcohol, drugs, or weapons to the farm. Service animals are allowed with proper identification.
• Do not litter or leave any trash behind. Use the trash cans and recycling bins provided.
• Follow the instructions and directions of the staff and volunteers. They are there to help you and ensure your safety.

When is the best time to visit?

Poston Gardens is open from March to April, depending on the weather and the blooming season of the tulips. The best time to visit is in the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler and the light is softer. The farm is usually less crowded on weekdays than on weekends.

Is it family-friendly?

Yes, Poston Gardens is a family-friendly attraction that welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Children can have fun picking flowers, playing games, listening to stories, and making crafts. Adults can enjoy the live music, food trucks, photo booths, and educational exhibits. There is something for everyone at Poston Gardens.

Ready to move to Waxahachie?

Poston Gardens is a unique and wonderful place in Waxahachie, Texas. It offers a colorful and cultural experience that will delight your senses and enrich your mind. It also supports a noble cause that will touch your heart and inspire you to make a difference. Whether you are looking for a fun day out with your family, friends, or partner or a meaningful way to give back to your community, Poston Gardens is the perfect destination.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of the largest and most beautiful tulip farms in Texas. Visit Poston Gardens today and enjoy a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.postongardens.com or call (972) 935-9801.

A Trip Through Waxahachie Curious Stops: From College Street Pub to Estates of Hidden Creek

College Street Pub

210 N College St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head southwest on N College St toward Water St for 387 ft.
2. Turn right onto W Main St. The destination will be on the right after 174 ft.

The Texas Theater

110 W Main St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head northwest on W Main St toward S Rogers St for 85 ft.
2. Turn left onto S Rogers St and proceed for 0.1 mi.
3. Turn left onto W Madison St and continue for 262 ft.
4. Turn left onto S College St. The destination will be on the left after 75 ft.

Gingerbread Antiques

310 S College St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head northeast on S College St toward W Jefferson St for 194 ft.
2. Turn left at the 1st cross street onto W Jefferson St and proceed for 0.1 mi.
3. Turn left onto S Elm St and continue for 272 ft.
4. Turn right onto W Madison St. The destination will be on the left after 180 ft.

Railport Brewing Company

405 W Madison St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head southeast on W Madison St toward S Elm St for 443 ft (approximately 44 sec).
2. Drive along W Marvin Ave and Farley St for 2.8 mi (approximately 7 min).
   1. Turn left onto S Elm St and proceed for 0.4 mi.
   2. Continue onto Ferris Ave, passing by Valvoline Express Care on the left, for 0.3 mi.
   3. Turn right onto W Marvin Ave and continue for 0.6 mi.
   4. Turn left onto Farley St and proceed for 1.4 mi.
   5. Continue onto Broadhead Rd for 0.1 mi.
3. Drive to your destination, which will take approximately 41 sec over a distance of 0.2 mi.
   1. Turn left and proceed for 0.2 mi.
   2. Finally, turn right and continue for 266 ft to reach your destination.

Waxahachie Sports Complex

151 Broadhead Rd, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Continue to Broadhead Rd for 0.2 mi (approximately 42 sec).
   1. Head southwest toward Broadhead Rd for 266 ft.
   2. Turn left and proceed for 0.1 mi.
2. Take Farley St to N Gibson St, which is a distance of 2.3 mi (approximately 6 min).
   1. Turn right onto Broadhead Rd and continue for 0.1 mi.
   2. Continue onto Farley St for 1.5 mi.
   3. Turn right onto E Marvin Ave and proceed for 0.8 mi.
3. Turn left onto N Gibson St and continue for 0.4 mi (approximately 1 min).
4. Turn left onto W Main St and proceed for 0.2 mi (approximately 26 sec).
5. Finally, turn right and continue for 52 ft (approximately 6 sec) to reach your destination.

Nicholas P. Sims Library

515 W Main St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head northwest toward W Main St for 0.0 mi.
2. Turn right toward W Main St and proceed for 121 ft.
3. Turn right toward W Main St again and continue for 52 ft.
4. Turn left onto W Main St and proceed for 0.8 mi.
5. Turn left onto S Grand Ave and continue for 0.2 mi.
6. Continue onto W Main. The destination will be on the right after 0.1 mi.

Chautauqua Auditorium

Getzendaner Park, 400 S Grand Ave, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head northwest on W Main toward Getzendaner Memorial Park for 0.2 mi.
2. Turn left onto US-287 BUS N/W Main St and continue to follow US-287 BUS N for 0.9 mi.
3. Turn right onto N Interstate 35 E Rd/N Interstate 35 East Service Rd and proceed for 0.3 mi.
4. Continue straight to stay on N Interstate 35 E Rd/N Interstate 35 East Service Rd for 0.9 mi.
5. Turn right onto Civic Center Ln and continue for 92 ft.
6. Continue straight onto Alliance Blvd for 0.2 mi.
7. Finally, turn left onto Rae Blvd. The destination will be on the left after 0.1 mi.

Poston Gardens

2000 Civic Center Ln, Waxahachie, TX 75165, United States

1. Head southwest on Rae Blvd toward Alliance Blvd for 0.1 mi.
2. Turn right onto Alliance Blvd and proceed for 0.2 mi.
3. Turn right onto N Interstate 35 E Rd/N Interstate 35 East Service Rd and continue for 0.6 mi.
4. Continue straight to stay on N Interstate 35 E Rd/N Interstate 35 East Service Rd for 2.2 mi.
5. Take the exit toward Butcher Rd and continue for 0.1 mi.
6. Turn right onto Butcher Rd and proceed for 2.0 mi.
7. Finally, turn left onto Stonebriar Dr. The destination will be on the left after 446 ft.

Estates of Hidden Creek

Waxahachie, TX 75165, USA