Leona's Frog Farm
Leona's frog farm was on the Garden Tour in 1996 and 2001 and is back on now with a mature garden in 2009. Twenty years in the making. Leona's garden has taught her to water first, weed second, and finally cut back, her garden is her pastime and physical therapy. She built her home in 1990, and the garden was begun the same year, with the importation of sixteen tons of blue schist rock from Laytonville.The 12 zone watering system installed by Greg Krouse, who helped plan the original garden, keeps everything green.
Over the years the garden has been augmented by spontaneous plant purchases to create what you see today. Frogs, water and serenity are prominent features. This peaceful retreat has the bones of a Japanese garden with an English overlay. Each season brings an array of flowers for fresh bouquets. Wild places inside the fence have slowly been eclipsed by shrubs and flowers, but many of the native plants still live side by side with ornamentals and edibles. Part of my garden's charm is that it is a bit wild, such as the Himalayan Blackberries that bring fruit to her morning granola.
Two ponds, one nearly three acres in size, encourage the wild animals and native birds to remain and be part of the landscape: deer, bobcats, foxes, cougars, rabbits, skunks, raccoons, snakes, salamanders, hawks, cormorants, hooded mergansers, and a resident great gray heron all live here. My back deck overlooks the little pond with its waterfall circulating water from the big pond. There are memories here, the pink oxalis from her Mother's garden, lilies from her Grandmother's, and many plants given to her by friends and family.
Her daughter's wedding in the garden was delightful. Several Pomo Indian artifacts have been found here; the water and mild climate must have drawn them to this location. In the late 1800's, and after the giant Redwood trees were cut, this land of springs had three ponds for cultivation of frogs, for frogs' legs. Take a stroll around the pond, through the Redwoods and past the water lilies, it only takes a few minutes.
Garden Shop
On June 13, 10 am – 5 pm, browse the Mendocino Art Center's Garden Shop, featuring a special sale on Mendocino Maples' gorgeous Japanese maples, Descanso Nurseries' beautiful hydrangeas and many other surprises!Evening Reception, June 13
This year the Garden Tour will be held on Mendocino's popular 2nd Saturday when art galleries in town hold artist receptions. Continue your great day of entertainment at the Mendocino Art Center, 5 pm to 8 pm. Hobnob with the exhibiting artists, nibble snacks, sip wine, and view the new gallery exhibits!
Banner Art/Cafe Beaujolais Gardens
Photo Credit: John Birchard
