Helene's garden is every bit as special as it appears on her blog--maybe even more so, because it's a comfortable, organic oasis in the midst of a very urban neighborhood. Walking into her garden after pounding the pavement of the city streets is truly a secret garden experience.
Not only does Helene have an incredible collection of plants carefully arranged in a small area, she also has an eye for structure, scale, and perspective. Her creative arrangement of hardscapes, paths, and plants is pleasant from every direction.
A vase artfully arranged with the garden's latest blooms brightens the sitting area,
Along with bright mugs, comfortable patio chairs and potted plants. After following Helene's blog for a while, I know she has plants blooming and sharing the spotlight year-round.
Some of the highlights during our visit:
Two varieties of Skimmia (S. japonica),
Several types of Hydrangeas, including 'Pinky Winky' (H. paniculata),
Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum),
Primroses (Primula vulgaris),
Chinese Lantern plant (Physalis alkekengi),
Passion Flowers (Passiflora),
and several cultivars of Fuchsias. Some of the Fuchsias are tucked in surprising places behind other plants, and I like the way the light plays with the blooms in an old-fashioned kind of way.
Helene also has a healthy collection of Hellebores, already showing signs of new growth.
Her striking, colorful 'Mary Eveline' Dahlias are definite focal points.
Helene's is very much a working garden, with experiments, seedlings, and propagated plants always waiting in the wings.
My personal favorites are all the luscious, healthy Roses--particularly photogenic just after a rain shower.
Thank you, Helene, for your hospitality.
I know you said the Sunflowers are done for the season, but they'll be back next year. And we'll all be following your blog to see what magic you work in your little piece of heaven in the middle of the city.
