The Gardens of Houmas House Plantation have been developed as a lush 38-acre panorama of indigenous Louisiana plant life and stunning exotics designed to beckon visitors to extend their stay.

Like the statues of the four seasons patiently await the arrival of each solstice and equinox along the River Road, the Gardens are planned to reflect the unique beauty of each part of the year.

Many sitting areas have been provided around the property to invite guests to sit and experience the year-round grandeur of the ancient oak alley, the fragrance of spring and summer blooms and the sights and sounds of bird life, wildlife and plantation life of long ago.

The Hampton Garden, the Upper Garden and the Croquet Lawn flank the dramatic and inviting Fountain Courtyard where many guests like to congregate following their tour of the Mansion.




WINTER
With it's year-round growing season, Houmas House Plantation and Gardens is always alive with new plantings, new growth and new blooms, even in the dead of winter. Adding to the natural show performed by the property's plant life, the property is dramatically decorated for the holidays, both inside and out. Soon a Victorian style greenhouse will be erected where local and exotic plants can be inspected and purchased.

SPRING
Spring comes early to plant life along the River Road, and the gardens at Houmas House literally explode overnight with color and fragrance. The gardens are aggressively managed to create a natural display of indigenous plant life and blooms alongside the more formal presentation of selected exotics that add to the overall Houmas House experience.

SUMMER
Cooling breezes from the Mississippi River are escorted onto the property by the ancient oak alley and cascaded onto appreciative visitors lingering in the fragrant gardens shaded by spread of the plantation's other historic oaks. Both annuals and perennials flourish in south Louisiana's warm, moist summer climate to create a sub-tropical feeling for summertime visitors.

FALL
Many natives and visitors alike consider fall the best season for South Lousiana. Crisp mornings are almost spring-like before giving way to a friendly afternoon sun. In this climate, Houmas House celebrates the traditional harvest season, including special decorations, inside and out, for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Unlike more northerly climates, fall temperatures along the River Road promote longevity for the flourish of summer plants and allow for special plantings during these months.