Anne Marie,

Are you saying you're traveling on the coastal route one north of Brunswick on the way up to Port Clyde, then down as far as Belfast on the way back?

If so, when you hit Searsport, just north of Belfast, you might want to follow the signs to Hidden Gardens nursery. It's probably ten minutes out of your way, but in my opinion, it's worth it. Their perennials are field grown, and I find they do very well. They might have some varieties you haven't seen yet.

Also, Surry Gardens in Surry, outside of Ellsworth on the Surry Road to Blue Hill, is a very popular nursery. I believe you can work your way over to the Stonington/Port Clyde area from there through some nice little towns.

Have fun. I hope the weather holds for your trip.

Silver Queen

From Bath, you can take Rt. 209 down to Phippsburg and visit North Creek Farm, see what old roses are still in bloom.

I found all these places on our map, and I have marked them. No doubt I'll try the Hidden Gardens Nursery the day before we leave (we are staying in Port Clyde the first night, then 2 nights in Belfast--where we are planning to visit a pottery artist in Swanville as well--maybe Fernwood Nursery?). We'll travel along Route 1 from Bath to Thomaston, probably, with maybe a few side tempting detours.
Surry Gardens might be too much for this time, but .. for another LONGER visit.. North Creek Farm might be a possibility. I have always heard so many good things about Fieldstones Gardens near Augusta, that I'll have to talk my hubby into a final stop on our way back.
Really looking forward to this trip, however short it might be! As long as it does not rain all the time, we'll be happy. Clouds, showers are fine.

Thank you for these great suggestions, thank you.. and I will report back to you in a week or so.

Anne-Marie

Do stop at fieldstones it is very nice. My favorite so far.

Anne-Marie,

Oops! Sorry, I was getting Port Clyde mixed up with Deer Isle. I guess it's because I love the Castine, Blue Hill, Stonington area so much. It's definately worth a visit if you have more time next trip. I think the weather forecast is good for your trip. Enjoy!

Silver Queen