Carol Verhake, of Lasting Landscapes by Carol, began developing her own garden over 20 years ago. Starting with foundation beds, she removed overgrown plantings and expanded planting areas. Today’s garden includes multiple island beds, a woodland trail, a water feature and two sitting areas. A covered patio offers a great view in the afternoon sun or when it rains. Irregular flagstone interplanted with Mazus reptans is an ideal perch for enjoying the water feature and birds that bathe in it. Boulders placed by Mother Nature serve as garden sculptures.
A garden bench, made from ash trees removed due to ash borer, became a unique feature. You might catch a glimpse of nesting bluebirds in one of the many birdhouses. Two very striking additions are the moon gate made of Pennsylvania field stone marking the entrance to the woodland, and the love shack made from primarily invasive vines.
Carol’s inspiration for plant choice came from her parents love of gardening. Drifts of hostas, peonies and foxgloves were passed along from them. Plant collector friends shared unique specimens of trees, shrubs and perennials that dot the landscape throughout. The planting areas vary widely from a sunny border along the front wall to many shade loving plants secluded in the understory of mature deciduous trees in the backyard. Every year Carol adds a new planting area or some kind of feature or structure to continue her garden transformation. By the time you visit, it’s likely there will be something different to see along with less lawn and more plants!
This event will be hosted in Berwyn, PA; specific address and directions will be sent upon registration. Light refreshments will be served. This is a rain or shine event.
