Join the Garden Tour
We will be touring Carol Q’s Garden on Saturday, August 10th, 2024 from Noon to 2 pm. Members are encouraged to bring a friend and to carpool. See all of our upcoming events and register for the address on our Events Calendar.
How It Started
Anyone expecting a pristine, cultivated garden will be surprised or disappointed when they see my messy garden beds. Sixteen years ago I started gardening with the objective of disguising an area of raw soil created when the pool contractor dug for the new pool. Erosion and concern for home damage led me to plant a friend’s donated hostas and bleeding heart plants.
The next spring I purchased more plants, at local garden centers. Building up more of the bare spots and also placed a few containers within the pool fence. My husband and I built a retaining wall and added a small fountain to make the area more attractive. I’m still living with some of the errors I made in plant selection. Such as vinca vine and pachysandra, but I’m slowly winning the battle.
Then I read about encouraging native plant growth to attract pollinators and birds. In addition to doing a small part to combat climate change. I became a convert and I committed to the goal of planting 85% to 90% native plants. I’m almost there.
How it is Going
Over the years, we installed a larger fountain and then added others. We have since built a small waterfall that borders the handmade steps going from the house to the pool. The sound of the trickling water from all the water features is soothing. Also, attracting so many birds, frogs, toads, and other wildlife seeking a little drink or a bath. Another prize is the “bonus” garden bed, built on top of the leach field of a new septic tank. I expanded a small shady garden bed into a much larger one which now encompasses a sunny area. There may be close to 20 native plants still blooming at the time of the tour and the remnants of earlier-blooming perennials, (due to the extreme heat and earlier bloom).
Visiting Notes
Parking, etc. There are two driveways that will be marked with signs or garden art that can handle about 4-5 small(ish) cars each. Any overflow parking should be done on our side of the road; there is enough of a shoulder to stay clear of traffic.
The property includes a steep hill and some uneven terrain, so if it is wet, or you’re unsteady on your feet or use a cane or walker, please seek me or my husband out so we can guide you safely around the property. Wear appropriate footwear to avoid slipping on wet grass or tripping on uneven surfaces. Water will be available but no bathroom, so plan accordingly.
Wild Ones
Wild Ones Capital Region New York is a chapter of a national organization promoting the use of native plants in every garden. Membership is a great way to support this mission on both a local and national level. Check out membership.wildones.org for more details including all the great benefits you will receive as a member. Our local chapter works diligently to provide specific information about our local native plants. Even if you are a Wild One’s member, please consider donating directly to our chapter.