FERGUS – The Fergus and District Horticultural Society has honoured five homeowners for their outstanding gardens, beautifying their neighbourhood and our town in the process.
The Grand Garden committee took time to review all of the many nominations received this year. It was the greatest number of nominations in recent memory.
This year’s winners are:
- Jennifer Otto, 135 St. George St., E., Fergus;
- Jim and Marsha Keracher,11 Middleton Ave.;
- Mike Crawford, 430 Elora St.;
- Irene O’Shaughnessy, 295 Breadalbane St.; and
- Barbara Muller, 150 St. George St., E., all in Fergus.
Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees.
Judging criteria
The committee put each garden through a lengthy list of requirements.
Each garden is critically assessed on the merits of curb appeal, and the attractiveness of the property from the street.
They look at the visual appeal and impact to the overall garden and yard.
The committee judges colour interest and texture, which includes plants (hairy, waxy, feathery), rocks, mulch and other non-plant materials.
Even lighting and the presence of shade brings interesting textures to the garden.
Judges also ask if there are any unique features, decorative in nature that capture the eye such as pieces of art, water fountains, architectural features and hanging baskets that are part of the overall effect.
Then there is design. Judges look for balance and if there is fluidity and symmetry in the garden design.
They also look for a variety of heights and shapes among the plants and whether the layout compliments the surroundings including the house and neighbourhood.
For example, do the colours of the plants blend with or accentuate the colour of the house?
Of course, creativity is critical in the decision-making process.
Maybe some of the features have never been tried or seen before or are used in new ways.
These creative elements may cause awe in the observer.
A well-planned garden changes throughout the season by design.
While our committee can only view the current stage of the growing season, they see indications of a succession of blooms and other elements that keep the garden interesting and beautiful at all times.
Finally, maintenance is the key to a beautiful and healthy garden.
Appropriately deadheaded gardens matter, although the committee prefers to see deadheads left alone if they provide food and habitat for wildlife.
Appropriate mulching matters too, although mulching may not be necessary if the garden is thickly covered with plants. And some neighbourhoods in our area discourage mulching, because of termites, for example, and that is fine also.
Finally, environmental stewardship takes responsibility over the care of our natural resources to ensure they are sustainably managed.
It includes conservation, biological diversity, forest ecosystem health and vitality plus sustainable maintenance of soil and water.
It’s quite a process, but worth it.
The committee enjoys their work and awarding homeowners for their beautiful work is always a joyful experience.
Congratulations to all who do such a great job making our town look and feel so good with their gardens. And congratulations to this year’s winners.
By Ken Johnston
Fergus and District Horticultural Society