How Ya Gonna Keep 'em Down on the Farm?

It wouldn't be too difficult if Tapestry Garden and Farm were the location in question.

"We purchased our farm in late 2014, so our gardens are young, but already vibrant and growing.  As a working organic farm we have incorporated extensive vegetable and herb gardens, a chicken coop made from mostly repurposed and reused materials and the beginnings of our orchard.  We also have a meadow garden and pollinator-friendly borders. "

"Perennial borders for sun and shade feature both tried and true plants and some choice finds.  Whimsical art and vintage finds are tucked amongst the plants, as well as 80-plus varieties of Japanese maple, our specialty."

You never know who you'll run into at these open gardens!  He seems to be well grounded if a bit cracked. 

 "new additions include hedgerows with a focus on native plants and berry-bearing plants to provide both cover and food for birds and other wildlife.  Plus a children's garden and tree fort!"

I find twig fences attractive and this one is used to  hide the composting operation.

What the cluck?   The ladies were enjoying the sunny day. 

"Sustainability in alll of our gardening practices is extremely important to us and we hope that you will both enjoy and learn from our experiences here, turning fallow farmland back into a viable, productive and beautiful place for people, plants, crops, and wildlife."

Onions laid out to dry.

Is a fence made of doors the plan for these? 

Notice the arm of the bench planted with Sempervivum.

I wonder if this sign is a deterrent to hungry rabbits? This bunny seems to be reading and heeding or maybe that's Peter Rabbit wondering how he'll retrieve his shoes and jacket which are so high over his head.

 One can buy produce shares seasonally and there's a small nursery as well.  How cool is that?

These were made by a local concrete artist.  I really like them and may have to go back to pick some up.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Star Gazer' 

Dr. Seussian (Truffula trees) clematis seed head.  

Is that a power tie you're wearing today Felix?

One more look before it's time to return the plantmobile.  Where will Carmen (Elantra) take us next?

For more information about Tapestry Garden and farm, including business hours and lots of beautiful pictures, please visit their website and if you're ever in the area stop by and spend some time "down on the farm."

Happy weekend all!

The Olympia Garden of Judy Montoure and Dorian Sanchez

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of seeing this lovely garden as part of the Northwest Perennial Alliance's Open Gardens program.

"Our 3/4 acre urban garden has two distinctively different personalities with year-round interest. It is maintained organically and is a certified Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary."

"The front garden is a peaceful and relaxing woodland park-like setting, with raised beds featuring Japanese maples, specialty conifers, ornamental grasses, ferns, perennial ground covers, and a large pond with a waterfall."  I missed a whole section of this garden containing the pond and waterfall because I was drawn to the tropical area.  I apologize and will make sure to find it next time the garden is open!  However, you can see an image of that area and much better images of the garden without the midday sun here."

""Following the main garden path through a long arbor draped with ornamental grapes, visitors leave this quiet woodland and enter the tropics!"

Which way is the garden? 

"Our back garden is an exciting electric blend of hardy bananas, palms, cannas, taro,  large colorful annual containers, and many other intense plantings that provide variation in texture, form and color.

Musa basjoo in bloom!

"A little Asian flair has also been added in. Garden rooms, seating areas and water features provide the perfect setting for entertaining."

"Our garden has been featured in the Olympian newspaper, the 2008 Garden Conservancy Open Days directory, and the Spring 2017 Pacific Horticulture Magazine."

 Lots of fun details to notice!

Back out along the other side of the house. 

Thank you Judy and Dorian for opening your lovely garden for so many to enjoy!