the side of the hill, the climate was slightly warmer, allowing for a longer, warmer growing season. The 1,000-foot garden was divided into 24 different sections, and the vegetables were grouped by which part of the plant would be harvested. The vegetable garden was built and maintained through slave labor. Orchards Monticello had two orchards, vineyards, berry patches, and a nursery, all known by Jefferson as his "fruitery." The North orchard included only apple and pear trees that were used by Jefferson to produce ciders. The South orchards were planted around the vineyards and berry patches and included fruits such as apple, peach, cherry, pear, plum, nectarine, almond, apricot, and quince. Underneath the vegetable terrace was a large vineyard with both native and foreign species of vines. Jefferson was also famous for his berry squares. These patches of berries were used both for fruit and Jefferson's experiments at growing tropical fruit in the Virginia climate. Purposes Thomas Jefferson's gardens had many different uses. They were used mainly to produce food and drink for the family, guests and slaves. The fruit was picked for fruit to eat, and processed for apple cider, brandy, and livestock feed. Jefferson incorporated many European trees into his fruit garden, while also maintaining a New World, Virginian feel. The vegetable gardens were used to grow tomatoes, beans, carrots, and cabbage. They were cultivated for products which Jefferson entered into food contests. The vegetable gardens were also where Jefferson did much of his experimenting. He imported many exotic vegetables, and planted seeds from other American regions, which were brought back to Virginia by Lewis and Clark. He hoped to find the best type of each vegetable by planting a variety of each. Jefferson's gardens were a major source of beauty and entertainment at Monticello. He led his guests on numerous tours, especially to visit his "pet trees", and enjoy the shade they provided. Slave gardens and root cellars Purpose Slave gardens were an integral part of plantation life. The gardens were made near slave quarters and fenced in with saplings, branches, and vines, and root cellars were located underneath the slave homes. Based on the observations of travelers, the gardens were small in comparison to the other gardens on the plantation. Slaves grew their own fruit and vegetables to supplement their rations. Vegetables included lima beans, pole beans, cabbages, collards, corn, cymlings (pattypan squash), onions, peanuts, black-eyed