Visiting Shari & John's Garden Again

It was in the fall of 2020 that I last saw Shari McDonald and John Hembroff's garden. I can't believe that was 2 1/2 years ago but, as they say, time flies when you're having fun (actually these days I think time flies no matter what mood you're in).

Shari said they had some damage during the winter. A tree fell in the front garden and while it didn't do a lot of damage, it did open up more space.

I absolutely love this garden and every time I see it, I feel the need to go home and start ripping everything out in our overstuffed garden and start over. It is so well designed and tranquil, truly a place to retreat from the noise and bustle of everyday life.

I ask myself how I would adjust to a shade garden. I know I would miss flowers, especially roses, but I also know that I prefer shade over sun.  

After entering, you are surrounded by plants and huge rocks. After walking a short distance down a flagstone pathway, you turn around and look back to this view -

To the right is a large Koi pond and waterfall -

Going around to the back garden reveals more treasures. This is a small garden but Shari has found room for a large amount of choice plants.

Hydrangea aspera

I forgot to ask Shari but I'm pretty sure the large variegated rhododendron is Rhododendron ponitcum 'Variegatum'. It has a beautiful purple bloom. The smaller rhododendron at the foot is 'Ebony Pearl' -

Back around to the front - this was taken along the side of the garden by the street - 

One more closer look at that inviting entrance -

Thanks again Shari and John - your garden is a treasure!

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy