A Country Garden in the City

When Ralph D'Amico and Bob Pellin first moved to their home, the main design element was the lawn, with a few large pine trees in the rear. Removal of those trees enabled the start of true gardens. Lots of shade meant lots of container gardens with blasts of color from annuals. A wealth of hostas was also added. The backyard is now divided into three small garden "rooms." Thirty-nine years of plantings means the lawn is now minimal. Specimen trees such as their favorite mimosa tree help give their yard a homey atmosphere. A lovely weeping cherry, lost during the October 2011 snowstorm, was replaced with a "Fern Grotto" and a small brick patio. The gardens are the summer home of their numerous houseplants, including Ralph's prize-winning Clivia miniata. Recent additions include a garden on the side of their home with numerous native perennials benefiting pollinators. Their hope is to establish an English Country Garden feel in their inner-city neighborhood.

This garden's estimated size is 1,000 sq. feet.

Open Days 2024:  Saturday, August 3
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets for this Open Day will be available on Monday, June 3.