Melania Trump Welcomes Americans to the White House Gardens in Spring Tradition

Spring has officially arrived at the White House as First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Americans to tour the iconic gardens in their early bloom. Sunday brought cloudy skies with occasional sun breaks and a crisp 60°F, but that didn’t stop eager visitors from lining up to explore the South Lawn's floral splendor.

The tours, initially slated for Saturday and Sunday, were rescheduled to Sunday due to security concerns surrounding public demonstrations near the White House. Despite the shift, the event went off without a hitch, offering a rare glimpse into presidential horticultural history.

Guests strolled through several famous gardens, including the Rose Garden, Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Kitchen and Cutting Garden, and the Children's Garden. The White House grounds, a living piece of American history, boast the nation's oldest continually maintained landscape, featuring 33 commemorative plantings.

"Since the 1870s, most presidents have planted a commemorative tree during their tenure," noted the National Park Service. "The White House Gardens evolve with the seasons and each administration."

Nicholas Clemens, director of communications for the Office of the First Lady, shared, "We are proud to continue the longstanding tradition of Spring Garden Tours, giving the public a chance to enjoy the beauty and history of the White House grounds." Clemens emphasized that the gardens have been lovingly cared for by dedicated staff and enjoyed by generations of first families.

Photos of Melania Trump, President Donald Trump, and previous first families added a personal touch to the tour. However, the spotlight was on the Southern magnolia tree, believed to have been planted by President Andrew Jackson during his term from 1829 to 1837. As a bittersweet twist, this was the public's last chance to see the tree, which is in "terrible condition" and deemed a safety hazard by President Trump. It was propped up with wires during the tour for safety reasons.

The event wasn’t all flora and history; visitors crowded around "The Beast," the famed presidential limousine, snapping photos and soaking in the moment. The White House partnered with the Trust for the National Mall to raise private donations and recruit volunteers for the tour—a collaboration that ensures the gardens remain a national treasure.

Julie Moore, spokesperson for the Trust for the National Mall, said, "This event invites visitors to enjoy the beauty and history of the White House gardens while appreciating the work we do to preserve them for future generations." The gardens' charm clearly worked its magic on attendees.

For those who missed this springtime opportunity, the south grounds of the White House will open again in the fall—another chance to immerse yourself in this timeless tradition.