Jan and Bill have created this “Country Garden” over the last 22 years. This is a garden packed with hydrangeas, maples, hostas, and many other interesting features. It is an inspiration so make sure you save plenty of time to wander through the property as there’s so much to see and enjoy including the unique and fascinating garden art and structures.
 
From a bare fenced farm acre, the garden was begun in 2002, following the house build. Jan’s collection of 185+ different hydrangeas began in 2013 – there are now 350+ in the garden with many in pots to assist with their colouring – blue in the acidic soil.
 
The hosta collection began in 2015, and there are 65+ different named ones with many unnamed. Enhancing the effect are the multiples of many varieties.
 
Maple canopies provide glorious shade and beauty and as you stroll around the many garden sections you will be amazed at the abundance of perennials and annuals. Notice alstroemeria, azalea, camelia, clematis, daylilies and lilies, heuchaera, heucheralla, tiarella, iris, loropetalum, rhododendron, roses, and magnolia.
 
The welcoming atmosphere of Jan and Bill’s garden is enhanced by the garden art and structures.  Look for the pole friends – “Geraldine” and her basket of plants, with “Giacomo” beside her and “Poppy and Josie” hand in hand under the hanging baskets by the patio. Explore Poppy’s and Josie’s paths.
 
Sit and relax on one of Bill’s benches and see all the wooden garden structures he has made. Find Jan’s Dad’s homemade wheelbarrow and various treasures from her ancestors.  The 10 wooden gates are from a friend’s sheep farm at Mapiu while the water feature with the “little girl” washing her hands reminds Bill of his Canadian sister.  The garden is not just a visual delight but also a place full of stories and personal touches.
 
On the day I visited, tui, fantail, waxeye, and other birds were enjoying the feeders and bird baths.  If you’re lucky on the Festival day you may spy a wood pigeon resting on a branch.
 
Jan is a passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced gardener and with Bill’s support and workmanship, this garden is a paradise for garden enthusiasts.
 
Bev Maul-Rogers