What is South Carolina like?

Welcome to our Off-Grid Botanical Oasis!

LOGISTICS

Home to our botanical research garden and farm, South Carolina is a naturally beautiful coastal state with unique native flora. It borders only Georgia to the west and North Carolina to the east and north. The southern border is met by the Atlantic Ocean. Our secluded property is about a 3-hour drive east from Atlanta, GA; 2.5 hrs. east from Augusta, GA or west from Charlotte, NC and just an hour north of the breezy, grey sand beaches in Charleston, SC.

WEATHER

The climate is very tropical and humid with a higher-than-average summer heat index in comparison to the Western and Northern US regions. Due to lower light pollution typically found in metropolitan cities, stars are highly visible at night. And there is almost no smog, making for exceptionally clear, sunny skies on most days, aside from brief tropical storms.

View of the meadow.

RURAL YET MODERN

On the way to our farm, you'll pass glimpses of history via fragmented shacks and antique or flea markets not far from modern real estate developments. Major gas stations offer electric charging facilities and older gas/diner combos are complete with legendary self-serve boiled peanut slow cookers in mild or spicy.

Two Walmart’s, Dollar General's and several fast-food chains outnumber occasional farm-fresh watermelon or mixed fruit stands. Vehicles may share the roads with tractors on very rural roads. Most roads have street lights, even dirt roads--for safety and visibility of the deer’s that come out at night. (Yes, we've suddenly hit a deer while driving at night on accident, once. And the officers inquired of where it went for the fresh meat. Welcome to the country!)

COMMUNITY

Although considered the deep, once segregated South, most of the present-day locals are casual-paced and friendly with Southern hospitality still intact. Orangeburg is a near balanced mix of "Black," "Geechee Tribe" and "White" residents with a few Hispanic, Native and Indian residents adding to the bowl of cultural diversity. Several HBCU's are nearby, including Clemson University and SC State University.

Most homeowners are 3rd, 4th or even 5th-generational residents, thus, almost everyone knows everyone. Social views are often shaped through a solidarity-driven lens of "city" versus "country" folk instead of "Blacks" versus "Whites," with a noticeable general sense of equality and rural pride.

Medicinal Bull Thistle growing wild on our grounds.

WILDLIFE

What would the deep South be without its critters? One may encounter deer’s, squirrels, possums, raccoons, buzzards, a myriad of song birds, bats, wild turkeys and foxes make local appearances here and there.

Rattle snakes are common, but have never once been sighted on our property in over three years (we also use natural preventive treatments). They detect vibration from walking and usually steer clear of humans. Insects are prevalent, you'll see colorful butterflies, Dragonflies and maybe a Praying Mantis. But also, ants and mosquitos (however, we do take measures to protect our visitors from these as well).

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Orangeburg offers a breathtaking immersion into Nature's beauty at the nearby Edisto Botanical Memorial Gardens with picturesque bridges and serene offshoot canals from the Edisto river flowing through. A natural fishing hole and new outdoor exercise park are less than 10 minutes away, driving. And just an hour away are Zipline Canopy Tours and the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, the state capital.

NATURAL WONDERS

A one-of-a-kind, legally-protected, historical healing spring is a 45-minute drive away, as well as many lakes with boating recreation and mountains, too. A natural fishing hole and outdoor exercise park are less than 10 minutes away, driving.

Also in proximity, SC State University is the only historically Black college in the country with its own planetarium and the I.P. Standback Museum! And you'll even find wild Blackberry patches, Prickly Pear cacti and wild organic herbs growing on our private property.

ACCESSIBLE ATTRACTIONS

South Carolina is rich in cultural history and notable festivals that celebrate food (Shrimp & Grits Festival), music and the unique Geechee Gullah Heritage Tours. The "Palmetto State" also offers several exquisite beach getaway options, including Charleston, Savannah, Myrtle Beach, historic Tybee island and the Gullah Geechee islands.

The former C.A.Z. Memorial Fire Pit Lounge

NATURAL RESOURCES

South Carolina is a national and natural treasure. Not only is it the only place in the world where you can explore the most well-preserved Geechee and Gullah Tribal culture, food, land and people all at once, but it is the source of many precious gems! The state's rock mineral is blue granite and state gem is amethyst.

Copper deposits are found at the Nott mine, dazzling aquamarine comes from the Greenville Gemstone mine or Savannah river bank and yes, precious emeralds, sapphires and topaz are in Broad River and Bowen's River! A trove of dinosaur bones and fossils of saber-cats, whales and sharks have been discovered here, additionally!

COME EXPLORE!

South Carolina is currently one of the fastest growing states in the nation. With its Southern charm, rich culture, tropical allure, relaxed pace and quietly hidden treasures, it's no wonder this state is finally receiving it’s time to shine! Come explore its glory for yourself!

O.