In the English language we say that children need 'roots' as well as wings. We use the word 'roots' to denote the origin of something, as in the 'roots of jazz in New Orleans' or the 'roots of democracy.' We also use 'root' to cheer on our favorite sports teams. And we can never forget that our hair and teeth also have 'roots.' 
        For a tree, roots are essential for their very existence. Roots store food reserves during the winter. Year round they absorb and transport water and minerals from the soil to the rest of the tree. We never forget that they anchor the tree against wind. Yet for all their hard work they are largely ignored by us humans. Leaves are celebrated in the fall. A tree's fruits, flowers and nuts are celebrated in summer and fall. As far as I know, roots are never celebrated -- and I think they should be! Their shapes and patterns can be enchanting. Perhaps it is their lack of color that accounts for the lack of attention paid to them.
          A general misconception is that most of a tree's roots are deeply buried and out of sight. Yet most tap roots are only 15 feet deep and 99% of tree roots are in the top 3 feet of soil; with the vast majority of those in the top 1.5 feet of the soil. This is because tree roots need oxygen to function and it is easier to access oxygen closer to the surface. 
           I am always amazed when I see tree roots living on hard rock, as in the photo in the top far right. They certainly get access to oxygen that way! And serve as a wonderful example to all of us about adaptability, flexibility and tenacity. 

       We went to the Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas last spring and were "underwhelmed" by the paucity of its offerings. The trees there were obviously not "second growth" but probably third, or even fourth "growth." So we searched around for greener pastures, so to speak, and found Garvan Woodland Gardens a mere 6 miles from Hot Springs. The drive itself is quite relaxing as it takes you through a lovely rural area. 
       The Garvan Woodland Gardens consists of 210 acres of land that were completely clearcut in 1915. In 1956, the owner began planting thousands of plants and trees. The result, in 2019, is beautiful. Admission for adults is $15 and you can ride the entire gardens in a golf cart for $15 per person. If I ever go back again I just might make use of that golf cart, especially to get out to the Hixon Nature Preserve on Lake Hamilton. The Garden owns 4.5 miles of shoreline on Lake Hamilton and as a result allows visitors a chance to see over 100 types of birds. 
           Pictured below is the beautiful Bridge of the Full Moon. This is located within the 4-acre Garden of the Pine Wind which has 300 varieties of Asian ornamental plants including 40 giant-flowered tree peonies. This "garden within a garden" also features a Koi pond, several little waterfalls and one that is 12 feet high. It must be spectacular to visit when the azaleas are in full bloom.
        We were there in late April and there were only a few tattered blossoms still holding on. If you are hoping to catch the azaleas in full bloom check the "what's in bloom" feature on their website. An additional feature of these Gardens is the Anthony Chapel, which I thought was spectacular. The use of glass in the walls and the ceiling and its setting in the woodland creates a special blend of Nature and religion. The chapel can be accessed without paying the admission fee to the gardens. It is closed when a wedding is taking place. 
        Much appreciated by us was the fact that each person is allowed to bring in one dog to the garden as long as it is on a non-retractable leash. Located at 550 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas it is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and the month of January.