The 2008 Gardens
Jangaarden
This spectacular garden started out 20 years ago as "an acre of sawdust and a few flats of Vinca minor." Local builder Ralph Hastings crafted the home on 20 acres overlooking Useless Bay, and Whidbey horticulturist Holly Turner started the owners down the path that has led to a delightful three acres of cultivated Jangaarden. Drive across wetlands and up through the woods to a grassy promontory. The entry garden funnels visitors along a vibrant orange wall to the Experimental Garden. What began as a holding area—"I just love plants!"—has become a delightful secluded side garden with views to the water but protection from the wind. Admire the numerous tree peonies and bronze and golden foliage. A gate directs the way across the lawn to the Pagoda with sweeping views of farmland, water, and mountains. Walk the woodland trails to the fire pit in a fern glade or return to the newly renovated Perennial Border and Secret Garden. Seattle designer Dan Borroff is assisting the owners in transforming previous experiments into social spaces; the goal is to encourage visitors to cluster together in the garden as if they were in the heart of the kitchen at a good house party. Amidst the unique conifers, multiple species of Euphorbia, and bubbling water features, you can see for yourself the numerous sweet spaces for memorable conversations.
Features
- Experimental garden
- Fern glade fire pit
- Secret garden & pond
- Pagoda
- View promontory