New treats and old favourites are in store June 25 and June 26 during the annual Campbell River Garden and Art Tour.
There are thirteen gardens on offer this year, eight of which are new to the tour. As always, you’ll find an inspiring mix of styles, plantings and sizes of gardens, from Jack Oja’s sweeping borders that overlook Discovery Passage to urban pocket gardens loaded with individuality. In the latter category is Jan Tees’ garden, where she’s retained mature plants in a newly created design. Reta Davis, a returning highlight, has used whimsical “found objects” to add charm to her city lot. As in the past, you’ll find artists at work in some of the gardens, to capture the scene.
Among the larger gardens is that of Laurie Jensen and Eldon Brown, another returning favourite. Laurie and Eldon’s one-acre property was laid out using Feng Shui to create harmony and their home was designed to fit into this setting, with views into lush garden “rooms,” backed by forested trails.
There are some noteworthy ideas for gardening with the environment in mind too. The City’s rooftop garden, which has substantially reduced heating costs, will be opened at set times on Saturday and the Community Garden and Compost Education Center will have Elaine “the compost diva” on hand to provide how-to tips. June and Frank Greens, returning to the tour after a few years hiatus, transformed a shady rubble pit into a Victorian-style garden with more than 100 roses.
Another new feature this year is a tour of the gardens on Sunday, June 26 by bicycle with ‘Joy Rides’ cycle tours. Participants can bring their own bike or rent one from Joy Rides. Tickets are $40 (if you have your own bike) or $50 with a bicycle rental. Call 250-830-8522 to register.
Or you can opt to take the tour by bus at $18 per person. Call the City’s Community Centre to book your spot at 250-286-1161. Seats are limited!
Tickets for the self-guided Garden & Art Tour are $15 per person. Purchase tickets at the Gallery, at the Visitor Info Center or at the Willows Market. Call for more info: 250-287-2261 or visit: www.crartgallery.ca.