A public garden such as Longwood might intimidate the home gardener. If you follow our tips, you can get great ideas and inspiration for your home, even though there are more than 1,000 acres and 11,000 plants to see.

Don't let the size overwhelm you. Start by breaking Longwood--or any public garden--into a series of "rooms." Stroll the paths in Peirce's Woods and along the Hillside Garden to see how a meandering trail can add an air of mystery to a garden of any size. As you walk, take in the plants and their environments to see what might flourish in a similar location at your home.

left: The end of the Flower Garden Walk as you enter Pierce's Woods.