The Master Gardeners of York County’s 2014 Spring Garden Tour features four gardens in the Harlinsdale Community in Rock Hill. Here are brief sketches of the gardens.
Robert and Charlotte Hogue — 2758 Harlinsdale Drive
This distinctive property is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, highlighted with an entrance atrium that includes a swimming pool. This “outside” room is your introduction to a home where the architecture and landscaping blend to create a memorable experience. A gate takes you to more garden rooms. Large viburnum, hemlock and cryptomeria provide the backdrop for a host of hollies and azaleas. As you enter the backyard, you will find near a stream a raised garden that includes vegetables, herbs, perennials and annuals. Notice how the outdoor living space at the rear of the house offers sweeping views of the gardens and landscape. To the west, a side yard is maintained as a natural area with large trees and rustic seating.
Ken and Louise Sana — 3036 Harlinsdale Drive
This hillside retreat is approached via a sweeping front yard with its velvety zoysia turf beckoning you to saunter up the driveway. The elegant Georgian-style home is complemented by a palette of hollies that define the entrance and front yard. The lush lawn continues around to the rear of the home, where a newly built outdoor kitchen and dining area take center stage. With the adjoining sitting area, this back yard provides the perfect setting for gatherings of family and friends. Several container plantings add warmth and color to the impressive hardscape. The back yard provides a quiet oasis, screened from adjoining properties and livened by song birds. Two large sculptures guard the rear yard, surrounded by beds of perennials beds.
Steve Bott — 2976 Kaneland Court
Built in the 1990s, the Bott home and property feature a host of horticultural treasures and delights, inspired by the owner’s knowledge and love of gardening. Over the years, Dr. Bott has established several garden rooms. As you approach the front yard, notice the abundance of dwarf nandina, hollies and camellias. Those gems only hint at the delights that await you in the rear gardens. More than 80 varieties of camellias dominate the landscape. If any doubt remains as to whether you are in the domain of a serious gardener, witness the areas devoted to growing vegetables or fruit trees. The large wooded area at the rear of the property is utilized for the propagation of camellias and tea olives, and hosts a composting operation. Closer to the house, an outdoor patio provides a secluded area to relax and entertain family and friends, and to shelter tropical plants.
Jim and Sheree Welsh — 2981 Ellington Drive
A long driveway meanders through a lush woodland and crosses a small stream to this property. Volunteer dogwoods abound, along with mountain laurel, native azaleas and Japanese irises. The drive leads to a perennial and annual garden to the west of the home, filled with daylilies, perennial hibiscus, and black-eyed Susan. English laurel, azaleas and gardenias provide a fragrant walk to the entrance of the home. More than 100 pink ruffle azaleas and Encore azaleas herald spring’s arrival. The two-acre property continues with more gardens in the rear. There you can enjoy the water garden, viewed from the deck and screened porch. Several spaces are maintained as natural areas, featuring large trees, spring-blooming bulbs and native plants.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: The Master Gardeners of York County’s 2014 Spring Garden Tour
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. In case of rain, the event will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. April 13.
TICKETS: $5 apiece and may be obtained at any of the tour venues the day of the tour.
MORE INFORMATION: Visit http://gardenwalk.yorkmg.org/. A map is included.
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