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Heavenly hillside gardens on Garden Bloggers Fling in Toronto

Last week marked my participation in the 8th Garden Bloggers Fling. Held this year in the lovely city of Toronto, I flew to Canada with Fling travel mate, Pam Penick, of Digging.

The weather, at least 10 degrees or more cooler than back home in Austin, welcomed us as we prepared for 3 days of jam-packed garden tours. On the bus at 8:30 a.m. each day, our itinerary was filled with eye-opening private gardens, public gardens and other interesting Toronto highlights.

On our first day, we toured a series of hillside gardens located around High Park’s Grenadier Pond.

Nothing says “welcome to my garden” like an open gate — inviting almost 80 garden bloggers to meander about, enjoying the cool morning and oohing and ahhing over luscious plants, vivid vignettes and beautiful views.

This cozy little corner window was framed by a lush green vine, delightful square flower pots and some a variety of pretty plants.

There were many amazing plant specimens to take in on our garden tours — some of which I recognized, but many of which we cannot grow in my Zone 8b garden in Central Texas. So I thought of the landscape beds as beautiful arrangements filled with eye candy.

While many of the plants shown here — like these wide-leafed hostas — won’t be part of my plant palette at home, there is a place for good garden design in every landscape.

I particularly like seeing interesting garden decor adding a focal point to an otherwise ordinary space in the garden.

I feel like I didn’t do this garden justice with my photography. I was on the phone for 15-20 minutes, working with the AT&T rep, trying to authorize my husband to buy me a new phone. I left mine somewhere in the Chicago O’Hare airport. Thus ,my photography was limited to half-hearted, one-handed snaps. But I managed without a phone. In fact, it may have helped me focus more on being in the moment – once I quit trying to get one via Fed Ex!

As we walked down the street, even small spaces in the limited front yards were filled with pretty plants, all tucked into the rocks.

One of the things I observed was the frequent use of burgundy and lime-colored foliage in the landscape. With the sunny days, they often made for beautiful design contrasts, but tricky photo-taking.

I loved happening upon these darling metal flowers towering over the real ones.

Large, lush plants dotted the hillside down to the pond – which you can see here off in the distance. I guess that’s what happens in gardens with good soil and abundant rainfall.

Little bits of rock retaining walls partnered with sweet little plants to adorn the way down, or the way up, depending on how you look at it!

Almost to the bottom, here’s a shot of the broad expanse of the pond, a lovely reward for making the trek down the hill.

Gardeners are all about the details. Framed by a gnarly piece of wood, this pod viewing spot is a something to see all on its own.

I took a total of 1,415 photos on this trip, so it may take me a while to post about the entire excursion. There were so many wonderful sights to see, and our Toronto Garden Bloggers Fling hosts, Helen Battersby, Toronto Gardens, Lorraine Flanigan, CityGardening Online, Veronica Sliva, A Gardener’s World, and Sarah Battersby, Toronto Gardens and Fiesta Gardens, did an amazing job of delighting us each and every day.

Next up — an artist’s garden, full of inspirational creations designed to wow as much as the landscaping itself. Check back for some design insight and beautiful art in my next post.

By Diana C. Kirby|2017-11-29T23:27:01-06:00June 13th, 2015|Blog, curves, Fling 2015, garden art, Garden Bloggers Fling 2015, garden decor, gate, hostas, seating, Sharing Nature's Garden, Toronto, wooden railing|0 Comments

Delightful garden tour on a challenging slope …

It’s a treat to get together once a month with other Austin garden bloggers to share stories, enjoy each others’ gardens, eat, drink and pass along plants at our plant swap.

On Saturday, we were treated to double the fun. In addition to our monthly gathering at the stunning garden of David and Jenny of Rock Rose, we also ventured nearby to their neighbors and were given a guided tour of another beautiful garden.

Located on approximately one and one third acre, this garden’s hills and vales are interwoven with ribbons of rock and drainage solutions that blend into the landscape.

As we walked into the back yard, I was immediately drawn to this line of dramatic whale’s tongue agaves. They sit perched atop a river rock berm, surrounded by softer foliage that draws the eye far out into the garden.

Here’s a longer shot of how they are incorporated into this first layer of the overall landscape.

A closer look at the other plants reveals a cottage-like aesthetic, complete with a bird bath, gazing ball and obelisk to serve as focal points throughout the space.

The blend of sun-loving plants crosses traditional garden style boundaries in some areas, making the garden more intriguing.

Then the path evolved into a more desert-like garden, filled with sculptural cacti and agaves and garden art.

As dry as the garden appeared, it was hard to imagine the torrential rains that must have swept through these beds only days before.

As you keep meandering through the back of the garden, you wind your way through a shadier, wooded pathway.

Just as the garden becomes sunnier again, so does the garden decor. Brilliant pops of orange and cobalt blue are sprinkled throughout this section of the landscape.

Hot garden plants fill the brightly colored planters.

A single orange slice of wall acts as a backdrop for this dramatic planter, home to either a sago palm or a dioon edule.

More beautiful tropicals.

This is a view from the garden back to the house and a covered patio area.

Another painted wall houses this creative trellis displaying an array of cacti in terra cotta pots.

Just past the driveway, this colorful rooster seems to be peering through the salvia to spy on our group of gardeners.

This chocolate mimosa makes a striking statement against this dark wooden gate the the bright limestone.

This Asian-style bench welcomes visitors as they near the front door — and just beyond — this imposing soldier seems to be guarding the entry area as well.

The garden was spectacular — I loved not only the collection of plants, but also the fascinating garden sculpting to address drainage issues.

Special thanks to the homeowners for inviting us to share in their beautiful space.

By Diana C. Kirby|2017-11-29T23:27:01-06:00May 31st, 2015|Agave, barrel cactus, bench, Blog, cacti, chocolate mimosa, drainage, dry creek, focal point, garden art, garden decor, garden tour, pots, pottery, Sago, Sharing Nature's Garden, tropical color, whales tongue agave|0 Comments

Hill country garden charm in the heart of San Antonio…

The last stop on our visit to San Antonio gardens was another xeric garden, filled with drought-tolerant plants, both soft and sculptural. You can come along on the first two gardens of tour with me to see Melody’s and Heather’s gardens here.

Then we toured the garden of Shirley, who blogs at Rock, Oak, Deer. I ‘d seen Shirley’s garden through her camera lens many times, yet when we arrived, I was surprised to find that she wasn’t gardening in the country, but in a suburban neighborhood. Her style and plant choices created an oasis that made the rest of the world seem far away.

Well-placed plants serve to let the grasses and yuccas and perennials all shine.

Shirley uses repetition in her garden to create a dramatic effect.

Definition draws the eye through the space.

In the back yard, the focus is on perennials and grasses. Her rustic shed with its cedar posts and porch make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The arbor on the right is the entry for a deer-proof fence, protecting delicate plants and vegetables from the curious and hungry deer.

Leading to the shed, this circle garden is filled to the brim with flowing perennials and grasses.

Her unique rock garden design is home to a lovely collection of yuccas, cacti and agaves.

Rustic art and pots are scattered about to add interest throughout the garden.

The river rock path guides you around the plant-filled stock tank and circle garden to the shed.

Garden art on a rustic table is tucked away in the shade.

Whimsical elements make true garden art from a simple grapevine.

A collection of sweet somethings brighten up the front of the shed.

Because deer are frequent guests to the back yard, extra protection for new or special plants is a must. This rough cedar fence fits right into the landscape.

Up on the the large, shady deck, succulent planters adorn the windowsills.

All around the deck, pots and paraphernalia bring color to the shady spots.

Even the outdoor fireplace boasts a collection of perky little pots.

Since we’ve toured Austin gardens often with Shirley, it was a special treat to wander through her garden with her. The entire garden was intentional and peaceful. She’s clearly mastered the art of gardening with the rocks, oaks and deer that she writes about. Special thanks to Shirley and her husband for hosting us in your garden.

By Diana C. Kirby|2017-11-29T23:27:04-06:00October 26th, 2014|Agave, arbor, barrel cactus, Blog, cacti, deer, garden art, garden decor, grasses, paths, pots, Sharing Nature's Garden, succulents, xeric, yucca|0 Comments

A little garden trip down the road…

Last week I went on a jaunt to visit some of our blogging friends in San Antonio. They’ve come to Austin periodically, so it was time to venture south to see them. Our first stop was Melody’s beautiful and spacious garden. After a treat of delicious mini muffins and ginger cookies baked by her lovely daughter, we stepped into her sanctuary. The first view is a wonderful pool, surrounded by pots and plants that gave it a rustic, more natural look.

To deal with foraging deer, this fence guards Melody’s vegetables, herbs and some perennial favorites.

Garden art like this gazing ball catches your eye as you meander through the perennial garden.

Depending on which way you walk, this beautiful arbor marks the beginning or the end of a delightful path.

A shroud of vibrant green vines clothe the wooden structure.

This long view emphasizes the beautiful, though tough-to-photograph day with its bright light and deep shadows.

And then there were the gorgeous plants, like this salvia madrensis, one of my faves.

And then there were the gorgeous plants, like this salvia madrensis, one of my faves. Clever uses of ordinary things added such a nice touch, like this cracked cement birdbath repurposed as a planter with a small figurine in the center.

Carrying on with the wooden theme, this vignette beckons deep in the path and offers a place to sit and ponder the garden.

Pots like this one, overflowing with bougainvillea, are scattered throughout the garden landscape.

Another striking salvia, Wendy’s wish stands out among lower layers of perennials.

From the distance, the arbor is quaint, but standing underneath, it’s quite grand.

I almost passed this dragonfly by as he was well camouflaged by backdrop of the fence and the surrounding plants.

Another long view across the landscape.

Across the yard, this rustic trellis serves as a home to a vine and a birdhouse.

Coral vine adorns this rustic limestone wall to the tool shed…though it’s really more like a tool house.

Inside the safety of the high fence, a collection of tasty hibiscus grow with impunity.

Sunlight streams in to light up this seating area.

More friendly and welcoming plants in the garden.

My tools don’t look like this!

While not a blogger, we tried to convince Melody to blog so we can keep up with her garden, but we didn’t succeed – yet! Pam Pennick, of Digging, and our hostess, Melody, as we’re saying our goodbyes.

Thanks to Melody for graciously opening her home and garden to us for a wonderful morning.

By Diana C. Kirby|2017-11-29T23:27:04-06:00October 23rd, 2014|arbor, Blog, bougainvillea, garden art, garden decor, garden seat, garden tour, garden tour 2014, hibiscus, pool, salvia, salvia madrensis, San Antonio, seating, Sharing Nature's Garden, Wendy's wish salvia|2 Comments

Art defines stunning garden on Ohio visit to Louise and Kylee…

After visiting Kylee of Our Little Acre ‘s garden in northwest Ohio on Monday, we had a delightful lunch with her mother, Louise, of Two Girls with a Purpose, who many garden bloggers know and remember from so many Garden Bloggers Flings as Kylee’s traveling companion.

Louise’s garden overflows with beautiful garden art. From family carvings and creations to blown glass and commissioned art, the art is as much a part of the garden as the plants.

A very recent addition, Louise commissioned the creation of the giant metal scroll in the front garden What a statement as you enter the front walkway.

Sadly, in this photo I accidentally cut off the bird’s head at the top of this sculpture – but here’s a better view of it below. She’s now having another bird made to replace the one she added to the rocks below the sculpture.

He’s ready for his cousin to come join him.

These gorgeous horizontal planters flank the front door. Welcome!

Bright blue glass globes light up this little bed.

This colorful vertical planter adds Garden Up interest to the brick wall.

A quiet little corner of her side bed evokes a zen-like feeling with this iron pot (originally from China), junipers, conifers and the gentle Buddha.

As we strolled around the beds, this looked like a wonderful place to take a rest.

Oops, can’t sit there! How clever.

Water features adorn her garden around every corner – whimsical places for birds to drink and bathe.

The sculptural pruning of this tree creates a lovely backdrop for the roses and grasses.

After the rains, these drooping pine needles and cones were stunning. I so wish we could grow some of these evergreens in Austin. I have tree envy.

As we wandered further into the garden, Louise said it was really wet and we should take off our shoes. I can’t tell you how absolutely delightful it was to walk through the soft, cool grass. Without fear of vicious fire ants, cracked earth, limestone rocks or other unpleasant creatures. It took me back to my childhood and time spent on my Mammaw and Pappaw’s farm in Kentucky – running barefoot through the wispy Kentucky blue grass.

Hmmm…the perfect idea for using extra pavers or bricks.

A little protected outside nook houses more art.

How many garden decor items can you count in this sweet vignette?

Frog antics in yet another birdbath.

Oh my, ferns and heuchera and creeping jenny and a mushroom! All familiar things I enjoy in my garden, too.

I recognize that — it’s a giant saucer hibiscus — not the same variety as mine, but just as tall.

The blooms were really putting on a show for us.

One of my favorite color combinations. Can you tell which one of these purple blooms is a piece of metal garden art and which is a spent allium?

And around the corner to another little peaceful space with moving art that Louise bought when we were at the fling in Seattle.

This I loved — Kylee and her mom both had one of these trellises – one of Kylee’s Lowe’s projects.

Birdbath and sculpture all in one.

A brief glimpse through the trees.

This looks like a great place to sit with an iced tea and ponder your next garden project.

Another long view of the bed border with the succulent chair on the very right.

And now for a big garden room for spending the afternoon with friends.

Although, those swings look like they’d be perfect for napping!

These glass balls, created by a local artist, include textured pieces that allow butterflies to land on them.

Precious little details on the posts of the garden room.

What a cool planter hanging in the garden room – and another interesting vertical focal point.

Love these rudbeckias — I might have to try to find some for my garden.

More places for bird to drink.

This intricately-carved man standing watch over the garden was carved by someone in Louise’s family but I can’t remember if it was her father or Kylee’s father – Louise?

So many lovely vignettes and creative ideas greeted me throughout this garden. Louise’s personality and love for art was evident everywhere I turned.

Next, a tour of the amazing Children’s Garden and park that Louise helped plan and create in her home town.

By Diana C. Kirby|2017-11-29T23:27:05-06:00August 16th, 2014|bird bath, Blog, containers, focal point, garden art, garden decor, garden rooms, sculpture, seating, Sharing Nature's Garden, succulents, swing, trellis, vertical gardening|0 Comments

My special visit to Our Little Acre’s fabulous garden..

The clouds were foreboding as I started on my garden adventure on Monday, but the day brightened the minute I pulled into my friend Kylee’s driveway in northwest Ohio. Of Our Little Acre fame, Kylee and I have been gardening cohorts since she came to Austin for the first Garden Bloggers Fling in April 2008. Earlier this summer, when we were chatting at the Portland Fling, we realized that she lives a short 2-hour drive from Jeff’s family farm in Indiana. We’re here for a visit this week and I took the day to drive over and pay Kylee and her garden blogging mom, Louise, a visit.

Even in what she calls her Zone 6 garden, Kylee is an avid lover of succulents that find a home in the greenhouse during the cold winters.

Beautiful raspberries are getting some protection from netting and a new frame.

The edge of the garden overlooks the farm fields behind them. See those ominous clouds in the background? It drizzled through most of the day, but we didn’t let a little rain put a damper on our visit.

I could spend hours sitting on this lovely bench on this specially-made custom deck that flanks the pond.

Glass globes are suspended in the pond below the colorful garden art.

With the day’s rain, everything in the garden was lush and moist, and the grey skies overhead made for a great photo opportunity.

Beautiful echinaacea, flanked by a color guard yucca, and a big boulder, made me feel right at home.

Kylee welcoming me into the entrance to the back garden where more beautifully designed gardens await.

This may be my favorite view of the garden – a riot of color and texture with the farm fields flowing out behind.

And I had to take time to catch so many of the special details that Kylee incorporated into every part of the garden, like these quaint stepping stones.