Visiting Petals from the Past in Jemison, Alabama: A Garden Lover’s Paradise

Tucked away in the charming town of Jemison, Alabama, Petals from the Past is more than just a nursery—it’s an experience. This horticultural haven is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. Whether you’re looking for heirloom plants, fruit trees, or a relaxing afternoon surrounded by blooms, Petals from the Past offers something special for every visitor.

A Little Background

Petals from the Past was founded by Dr. Arlie Powell, a renowned horticulturist, and his family. Their mission? To combine old-fashioned plants with modern growing techniques, helping gardeners cultivate healthy, productive landscapes and edible gardens. With their deep expertise in fruiting plants, heirloom flowers, and Southern gardening, the Powells have turned this nursery into a beloved destination for both casual visitors and serious plant lovers.

What Makes Petals from the Past Special?

Visiting Petals from the Past isn’t just about buying plants—it’s about immersing yourself in a unique gardening experience. Here’s what makes this place stand out:

1. A Wide Variety of Plants

The nursery boasts an impressive selection of:

• Fruit Trees: Apples, peaches, pears, figs, persimmons, and more, all suited for Alabama’s climate.
• Berry Bushes: Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, muscadines, and grapes—perfect for those looking to grow their own backyard fruit.
• Heirloom Roses: Beautiful, fragrant varieties that have stood the test of time.
• Herbs and Vegetables: A fantastic selection of herbs, from basil to rosemary, and vegetable starts for seasonal gardening.
• Ornamental Flowers: Native wildflowers, perennials, and pollinator-friendly plants to enhance your landscape.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, you’ll find something to take home and nurture.

2. Beautiful Demonstration Gardens

One of the highlights of Petals from the Past is its extensive demonstration gardens. These aren’t just for show—they serve as a real-life guide for how different plants thrive in Alabama’s climate. You can wander through:

• The Fruit Garden: See mature fruit trees in action, offering a glimpse into what your own home orchard could become.
• The Cottage Garden: A dreamy mix of old-fashioned roses, perennials, and annuals that inspire gardeners looking for classic Southern charm.
• The Herb Garden: Learn how to grow and use culinary and medicinal herbs in your own backyard.

These gardens help visitors visualize how different plants might look in their own landscapes. Plus, they provide an excellent opportunity to snap some stunning photos!

3. Educational Workshops and Events

Petals from the Past isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a place to learn. Throughout the year, they offer a variety of workshops and educational events on topics like:

• Pruning fruit trees to maximize yield.
• Organic gardening techniques for a sustainable garden.
• Growing and preserving fruits for long-term use.
• Pollinator-friendly planting to support bees and butterflies.

If you’re interested in learning from experienced professionals, these workshops are a fantastic way to expand your gardening knowledge.

4. A Relaxing and Picturesque Atmosphere

Even if you’re not looking to buy plants, Petals from the Past is a beautiful place to visit for a peaceful escape. Strolling through the gardens, breathing in the scent of flowers, and listening to the birds makes for a tranquil retreat from everyday life.

The farm-like setting is also ideal for families. Kids can run around the gardens, explore the fruit orchards, and even get an up-close look at bees in the pollinator areas.

5. Delicious Fruit Tastings and Farm Products

Depending on the season, visitors may get to sample fresh fruit grown right on the property. Peaches, figs, and muscadines are just a few of the seasonal treats you might get to taste.

They also sell locally made jams, jellies, honey, and other specialty products. If you love fresh, homemade flavors, you’ll definitely want to pick up a jar or two before you leave.

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

While Petals from the Past is open year-round, certain times of year offer a particularly magical experience:

• Spring (March-May): Bursting with blooms, the gardens are alive with color, and it’s the best time to buy new plants for your garden.
• Summer (June-August): Great for fruit lovers, as many trees and berry bushes are producing.
• Fall (September-November): A wonderful time to visit for cooler temperatures and fall gardening inspiration.
• Winter (December-February): While the gardens are quieter, this is a good time to learn about pruning and planning your garden for spring.

Location and Hours

Petals from the Past is located at:
16034 County Road 29, Jemison, AL 35085

Check their website or social media for the most up-to-date hours and event schedules before planning your trip.

Things to Bring

• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking through gardens and orchards, so wear something sturdy.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Alabama sunshine can be strong, especially in spring and summer.
• A Basket or Tote Bag: If you plan to purchase plants or goodies from their shop, this can be helpful.
• Camera or Smartphone: You’ll definitely want to capture the beauty of the gardens!

Why You Should Visit

Petals from the Past isn’t just a nursery—it’s a horticultural experience that connects people with nature, education, and sustainable gardening. Whether you’re a local looking to add plants to your landscape, a traveler passing through Alabama, or someone eager to learn more about growing your own food, this gem in Jemison is worth the visit.

With its warm hospitality, breathtaking gardens, and expert guidance, it’s no wonder this place has earned such a devoted following. So next time you’re in central Alabama, take a detour and spend a day exploring this one-of-a-kind botanical paradise. You just might leave with a few new plants—and a whole lot of gardening inspiration!