Random Planting or 'Gardens By Design'

Wouldn't you love to have a neighbor who is a great mechanic? How about one who’s a friendly doctor or nurse? Well, if I had my druthers, I would choose a professional gardener. Not only would her yard look great, maybe it would rub off on me.

It would indeed be nice to have those kind of neighbors! Master Gardeners Julie Foster and Linda Edwards are owners of Gardens By Design.

I invited Linda and Julie to my cottage house in Peachtree Corners for an interview and a consultation. They supplied me with a questionaire before their arrival so they could have a heads-up on what were our likes and dislikes and some specifics about our yard and garden areas.

My husband and I have worked hard on our landscape over the last nine years, but it is definitely time for a “bump up.” Linda and Julie’s business thrives on helping do-it-yourselfers who are ready for a professional eye to guide them into landscaping’s next level.

Linda and Julie met years ago when their children were in elementary school together; a Stone Mountain field trip found them putting window boxes together. Discovering a mutual passion for gardening and helping others love it, and in 2004 a business would be born.

It was fun to have these two friendly ladies join me in my front yard. They were quick to notice the upgrades and efforts we had added. I  pointed out the things that failed or were not the success we wanted. Julie and Linda affirmed my concerns but were encouraging to point out effective ways to deal with each problem.

Soaker hoses with mechanical timers for those drought weary grasses and plants
Plants I’d purchased but were not thriving; give them a chance to establish-be patient.

Our discussion over, I left Linda and Julie busily measuring my yard, drawing plans and brainstorming about ideas. We would meet a few days later to see their sketch. I felt confident when they left because they had asked input from me and talked through their ideas.

When next we met again Linda and Julie had The Plan for my yard. Beautifully and expertly sketched out and easy to read, we spent time talking through each suggestion, looking at pictures of plants selected and why, discussing their shape, color, and how this plan would accomplish what I was looking for: to make the entry to our home more inviting and colorful.

They both listened very carefully to my thoughts and implemented them with wonderful twists of their unique designs and expertise. Armed with new knowledge, I look forward to implementing each step.

Editor's Note: Julie Foster writes the Norcross Patch column , offering her expert insights on gardening once a month.