Owners of six of Aylmer’s many pretty gardens invited a closer look on Sunday (June 24) for the Aylmer & District Horticultural Society’s 2012 Garden Tour. The event offered a wealth of gardening inspiration as well as a look at interesting architectural features of the historic homes
Above. The Oslach’s Saltbox house was built in the 1860s. Demonstrating a thoughtful and versatile use of space, the gardens include roses along the driveway, and in the back, a water feature, herb garden, vegetables, berries, and fruit all surrounded by perennial beds along the fence lines. A woodland garden completes the yard, to the east of the house. Arthur was on hand to answer questions - his knowledge comes from experience he has gained in his own yard as well as previously as a nursery owner in Simcoe.
Above. Brenda Lawson recently purchased this heritage home, built in 1870 and welcomes visitors to her “Sweet Magnolia” B&B.
Above. Part of Martin & Judy Poelman’s home was built in 1897 to house the people working for the Shaw family who owned a farm on the property. Martin and Judy started gardening in the mid-1980s - Martin focuses on designing and building, while Judy takes charge of planting - the result is a beautiful backyard oasis.
Above. Don & Judy Dureee’s home was built in 1832 by Peter Buck. This garden is a lovely and peaceful setting in the downtown neighbourhood. To add to the ambience of a sunny Sunday afternoon tour, musical entertainment on the porch was provided by Don Durkee and friends (Don on Saxaphone, Tom Starks on keyboard, Guy Miskelly on guitar).
Above. The Sinclair home was built in 1861 by Samuel Yorke, a tanner. The gardens surround the home and slope down to the creek at the rear of the house, providing the perfect place for a shady, relaxing stroll.
Above. The Harrison home is in the bottom portion of the original Andrew Carnegie Library (which served library patrons from 1912 until 1982, when it was replaced by the Old Town Hall Library). The garden behind the building is a good example of what can be achieved in a small space. Gatekeeper at the home was Bozena Boadway, who took the opportunity on the heritage-flavoured tour to dress in the spirit and also to promote the upcoming Aylmer 125th Anniversary weekend.
The Aylmer & District Horticultural Society meets the first Wednesday of the month (September to June). New members are welcome to join in on activities and benefits that include speakers, plant/seed exchanges and auctions, grower discounts, demonstrations, newsletter, competitive flower arranging and design and the July Garden Walks. Visit http://www.gardenontario.org/site.php/aylmer for more information.
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