Linda Mohr has put a lot into her garden.
When she and her husband, Dave, bought their Shell Beach property in 1986, the backyard was a mess of blackberry brambles.
“We cut the weeds and sprayed Roundup for years,” said Mohr of their efforts to create a clean slate. Five years ago, the Mohrs brought in excavators and created raises separated by huge boulders.
Mohr has always been a fan of gardening and, having lived in Alberta, could not wait to get to B.C. where she could enjoy a longer growing season.
Maintenance, said Mohr, is getting easier now that the foundation has been planted.
“I still want to do a lot of dividing of perennials,” said Mohr who is also working on filling in a few of the gaps.
Mohr said she is striving for a more open garden, noting some gardeners prefer their plants close together.
“I’ve been taking my time and gradually letting it develop.”
Mohr doesn’t want anything obstructing her view of Bute Island and Ladysmith across the harbour.
This is Mohr’s first year as a stop on the Rotary Garden Tour. She was recommended by a neighbour years ago, but wanted time to develop the landscape before joining the tour.
The annual Rotary Garden Tour happens May 29. The event starts at the Aggie at 8:45 a.m. with displays and sales until 3 p.m. There will be a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. and guest speaker and introductions will happen at 9:15 a.m. The self-guided garden tour kicks off at 10 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. Raffle tickets are also available. For more information, please call 250-245-4384 or on the day call 250-245-3732. Tickets are $15.
The Rotary Club is always looking for new gardens. If you are ready to showcase your garden, call Mary Mulrooney at 250-245-4384.