It’s always a great motivator to see how other gardeners have showcased their properties.
Just getting a peek to see what grows beyond the backyard fence can be a real treat. Shaded landscapes, pond installations, terrain situations or extensive plant collections are best viewed in a garden setting.
A garden tour is such a venue that allows for sharing of ideas for those who are beginning to garden or experienced horticulturalists. One-on-one discussions with homeowners always allows for informative questions and responses. “What is the name of this plant?” can be often heard.
The Fergus Horticultural Society’s annual garden tour is June 24, 12:30 to 4:30pm, rain or shine. The self-guided tour is easily accessible and within the Fergus area.
Visitors can walk about and chat with other gardeners about particular challenges and successes. Individual gardens may inspire people to plant or develop landscape ideas for their own garden.
Although the tour is free of charge, a donation to the Centre Wellington Food Bank is customary.
There are five gardens in the tour. Consult the society’s website http://www.gardenontario.org/site.php/fergushs for a map to each garden.
This year’s tour includes:
Garden 1, 110 Gold Street, Salem
Getting there: In Elora, take Metcalfe or Geddes Street north, turn left on Gold Street (before reaching Woolwich Street).
The garden, perched above the Grand River, offers sights and sounds to please and enchant. The focal point of the back garden is definitely the river, although the flora variety along the pathway will deserve attention. Large evergreens and a fine hornbeam shelter the side and front gardens. The front garden is laid out in an informal Celtic design. Throughout the gardens, whimsical and attractive cement planters, crosses, walls and statues are sure to be admired.
Garden 2 – 0300 South River Road, Elora
Getting there: Return south on Metcalfe and Geddes Streets, turn left on Water Street (known locally as South River Road) and 0300 is on the river (left) side.
The homeowner’s philosophy of gardening is very simple, “Let’s be completely unorthodox, break all the rules and see what results we get.” That is reflected in the landscape and the property’s unique design. Enjoy what you see and be bold with comments, advice and suggestions.
Garden 3 – 245 Union Street West, Fergus
Getting there: Continue east on South River Road until it becomes Union Street in Fergus. The address 245 is also on the river side, just before the tennis courts.
The owners have occupied the 150 year old home since 1986. The house has a strong association with the Gow family, who previously owned the limestone quarry located nearby. What started as an all grass property has evolved into a place of simplicity, informality and relaxation. There are many sitting areas, and the woodland feel of the garden is home to a variety of wildlife. The garden has evolved naturally over time, with no formal plan.
Garden 4, 675 Athol Street, Fergus
Getting there: From number three garden, turn south onto Tower Street, west onto Elora Street (opposite Belsyde Ave) then north onto Athol. The number 675 is on the west side.
Nestled among the conifers, the master gardener’s paradise has many adaptable features. Two small ponds joined by a stream, an aviary, a scree garden, and rock garden all vie for the visitor’s attention. Sixty roses steal most of the sunshine and a small herb and vegetable garden satisfies the taste buds. An extensive compost area supplies the necessary enrichment for the gardens.
Garden 5 – 370 Union St. E. Fergus
Getting there: Return to Tower Street, go north to Union Street, then east on Union, and 370 is on the south side.
This garden escape is in the heart of Fergus. Visitors are welcome to sit quietly by the pool, or wander among hydrangeas, hostas and ferns and many other hidden perennials. At this venue refreshments and information about the society will be available.
Allow at least three hours to tour all gardens at a leisurely pace.
The society is always searching for local gardens of distinction. Gardeners who have contemplated sharing their efforts with visitors should e-mail the tour coordinator at fergushortsociety@hotmail.com to be considered for next year’s tour.
Ron Stevenson is a member of the Fergus Horticultural Society
