Prepare to be captivated by the horticultural artistry of Western Massachusetts as the Garden Conservancy's Open Days program presents an exclusive opportunity to explore two breathtaking private gardens in Ashfield. On Saturday, July 19th, for one day only, garden enthusiasts are invited to step inside these hidden oases, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience designed to inspire. Complementing these tours, a special "Digging Deeper" program in Plainfield will delve into the masterful craft of dry-stone wall building at a nearby Plainfield garden.
The two Open Days gardens are:
Hillside. Nestled on a gentle, east-facing slope, this sprawling two-acre terraced garden is a vibrant testament to the power of color. Bold and beautiful, the garden prioritizes showy annuals and perennials, creating a dazzling display that bursts with maximum color throughout the season. The stonework forms the very backbone of this verdant sanctuary and lends exquisite detail to elegant edging. What began as a practical design element has serendipitously blossomed into a charming maze, with an array of distinct garden beds seamlessly connected by winding crushed stone paths. This invites visitors to wander and discover new delights around every turn, transforming a simple stroll into an engaging journey.
Wyoming Valley Farm. Ten years ago, this former working farm in Ashfield’s Spruce Corner began a remarkable transformation. This ongoing renovation is reclaiming open fields and vital successional landscapes around the homestead. New perennial gardens now embrace the house and barn. These young, evolving gardens beautifully meld cultivated beds with a tended wild edge, gracefully leading to pastures and woodlands. Already a vibrant haven, the gardens teem with birds and pollinators.
The gardens will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for registered guests. Tickets are $10 per person; $5 for members of the Garden Conservancy. Children 12 and under are admitted for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visitors are reminded that no pets are allowed. All registrations must be processed online through the Garden Conservancy's website. Visit gardenconservancy.org/opendays.
Digging Deeper: Dry Stone Walling in the Garden
On July 19th from 4 p.m.-6 p.m., garden enthusiasts can also delve into the enduring beauty and masterful construction of stone walls at Stone Hill, a captivating Plainfield, MA garden. Its meticulously rebuilt walls now form the backbone of the landscape, defining a series of enchanting garden rooms. This special "Digging Deeper" program begins with a concise history of New England's stone walls, followed by a live demonstration of proper building techniques using small stones. The program culminates in a comprehensive tour and discussion of the garden's diverse walls and stone structures, offering insights and inspiration for your own garden applications. Tickets for this educational event are $40 per person; $30 for members of the Garden Conservancy. Visit gardenconservancy.org/events to register.
