Really, Smell the Roses

What smelled good in 1967 still smells good today. At least, that’s the concept of a new living exhibit at Powell Gardens (1609 Northwest U.S. Highway 50 in Kingsville, 816-697-2600). The Fragrance Garden: A Journey for the Senses includes such intoxicating flowers as jasmine and gardenia. The plants and nine smelling stations are arranged according to the advice in Helen Van Pelt Wilson’s 1967 book, The Fragrant Year. “It’s a great way to think about fragrance when you’re planning your own garden at home,” says Callen Zind, Powell Gardens’ director of marketing. Visitors can experience a little aromatherapy as they vote on their favorite scents. And the smells aren’t the only soothing thing about the exhibit. “It will have a lot of nice spring color, which we could all use about now,” Zind says. Sniff the blooms from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through March 8. Admission costs $6, $5 for seniors and $2 for children ages 5 to 12.
Jan. 6-March 8, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 2009