If you’ve ever wondered how the original Catwoman, Julie Newmar, manages to look as vibrant and youthful as ever at 91, here’s the scoop: it’s all about her love for gardening. An exclusive insider tells Closer that her passion for tending to her lush garden keeps her not just physically active but also young at heart.

"No matter her age, Julie leads an incredibly active and fulfilling life surrounded by friends," the source reveals. "But what truly keeps her in top form is her dedication to gardening. It’s something she says gives her life and purpose every single day."

Julie’s Paradise in Los Angeles

Julie often describes her life as living "in capital letters, in Paradise." For decades, she’s been cultivating the garden of her Los Angeles estate, where she’s nurtured nearly 80 varieties of roses. In a March 2023 interview with Better Homes & Gardens, she joked about her daily routine, saying she spends her time "pinching pansies" in her private oasis.

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Her love for gardening dates back to her childhood. "I think I fell in love with gardens because that's where I felt safest as a kid – out in our yard with my father," she reminisces. For Julie, gardening isn’t just about growing plants; it’s about finding peace and connection to nature.

A Lifelong Passion for Growing Things

Even during her demanding acting career, Julie always found time to nurture her green thumb. "When I was touring, I remember placing plants on the edge of the windowsill in the kitchen wherever I stayed," she shares. "Seeing something grow gives me a sense that everything is alright and in its place." This mindset has stayed with her throughout her life, even as she’s transitioned into retirement.

Now, at 91, Julie doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to tending to her garden. The source confirms that her daily gardening routine keeps her both physically and mentally stimulated. "She doesn’t want for anything when she has that to keep her occupied," the insider adds.

Julie Newmar's Lavish Garden 'Keeps Her in Her Prime' at 91 (EXCL) — Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images

A Small House, Big Garden Philosophy

Julie believes in the philosophy of a "small house, big garden." She has no interest in what she calls "that indoor stuff," preferring to focus on the four secret garden areas that flow around her Brentwood home. "Every day I go outside, I see something new that’s blooming, and it transfixes me," she shares. "I just stand there and pick up one flower and look closer and closer into it. The sepals and all those fancy Latin words that tell you what’s what. I fall down into it with a spiritual glee."

While she collaborates with landscape architects and designers, Julie insists on doing most of the hands-on work herself. "She loves planting and watching things grow, and she doesn’t even mind the weeding part," the source explains. "The reward is seeing her garden thrive, and the joy is witnessing all the colors coming together to create a visually stunning masterpiece."

The Year-Round Thriving Garden

Thanks to Southern California’s mild climate, Julie’s garden remains vibrant and thriving year-round. "She has plant varieties for every season," the insider adds. "People may marvel at how healthy and happy she looks, but to Julie, it’s just common sense." Gardening not only reduces stress but also helps her focus and feel a sense of pride. Plus, it’s a social activity—she loves showing off her garden to visitors.