The Garden of a Lifetime.

Avon native, Karen Robbins, was the founder, owner and creative genius behind Avon Gardens.  For over 30 years, Avon Gardens has been a treasured part of the Hendricks County landscape. After purchasing the property in 1987, she lovingly transformed what was formerly her grandparents’ farm into a lush garden paradise full of unique flowers, plants and shrubs.  Karen started selling Hostas, Daylilies and Irises from her yard.  She began collecting and eventually selling uncommon flowers, plants, shrubs and trees.  Karen’s passion for plants quickly became her path, as the former farm grew into a garden that came to reflect her imagination and talent.  Visitors came to understand Karen’s motto of “seek the unique” and also came to rely on her for tried-and-true garden advice, tips and guidance.

With Karen’s ardent vision and drive, Avon Gardens became more than a garden center; it became a destination.  At present, almost 2000 couples have exchanged wedding vows in the garden.  Visitors have traveled from around the world to see the garden, and guests frequently come for garden tours, tranquil garden walks and photography.  Karen once said, “Plants are like friends, each year returning to visit you.”  Avon Gardens is her expression of life, love and renewal.  Karen was loved by her staff and customers alike.   

After a three-year battle with Multiple Myeloma, Karen passed away in August of 2023.  A quiet walk through Avon Gardens will reveal the story:  Karen Robbins sowed the seeds, cultivated the relationships, tended the garden and left those who knew her with a perennial passion for plants, people and the resiliency of nature.  Like the mighty Oak, bold and strong, those who follow in her footsteps get to share her wisdom and past lessons learned.  With that in mind, the staff and budding new leadership team at the Garden, hand-picked by Karen, is poised to grow into the future.