Specialist hired to safeguard famous US tourist spot: 'He clearly had a plan'

Previously, Wiles spent six years as a senior horticulturist at Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center in Orange, Texas. She has taken on a position designed to manage the care of plants across the 23-acre outdoor grounds as well as indoor areas, including the conservatory and butterfly atrium.

Rather than rushing changes, Wiles plans to spend a full year observing the gardens through the seasons. She learned from a mentor in England that understanding a garden requires years of careful observation, and she intends to study which plants thrive, which struggle, and where improvements can be made.

Her career in horticulture began after leaving the business sector to join Longwood Gardens' Professional Gardener program. Following her graduation, she completed an internship at Great Dixter House and Gardens in England before pursuing graduate studies. Over 25 years, she has explored hundreds of botanical gardens across four countries.

Her immediate focus is on improving documentation for the thousands of specimens in Hershey Gardens. Accurate records support educational initiatives, conservation efforts, plant health monitoring, and collaboration with other institutions.

Visitors to Hershey Gardens can experience Milton Hersheys original vision, maintained by a dedicated team of staff. The gardens remain open to the public, reflecting Hershey's intention to provide a space for community enjoyment since the 1930s.

"Mr. Hershey was passionate about creating beautiful spaces for the community to enjoy," Wiles said. "He clearly had a vision for a welcoming and inspiring environment for everyone."

Author: Olivia Parker