For fifty years Sakonnet Garden in coastal Rhode Island has tested the limits of what’s possible to grow in the northeast, from Himalayan Blue Poppies to camellias and fancier rhododendrons, even palms outdoors in New England’s south coast. Experimenting in both design and horticulture, its projects currently focus on sophisticated color combinations and a new pollinator garden. Mikel Folcarelli serves on multiple local boards and commissions, plus welcomes thousands yearly to Sakonnet Garden. John Gwynne, former head of design for the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo, now focuses on new experiments at Sakonnet Garden.