Garden of the Month for June

Perched atop a steep hill is the home of Jean Hunter and TJ Schoenlein, who have turned this challenging lot into a slice of paradise. Jean is most proud of the garden leading up to their home, and it’s easy to see why. The steep hill would be a challenge to mow and maintain, and Jean knew she had to address it. She saw a garden that “sparked an idea” for her, and the rest is history.

Foundation plantings of various evergreen and deciduous shrubs with contrasting foliage colors and textures grab the attention of passers by. There isn’t a weed in sigh, and everything is perfectly manicured. The entire garden is Jean’s design, and she said it’s all been “trial and error”.

A long arbor perpendicular to the garage is Jean’s favorite piece of hardscape. Stepping through the arbor leads to a partially shaded backyard sanctuary, that feels like an outdoor room, with trees forming a loose ceiling overhead. The site looks suitable for a wedding. In fact, Jean’s daughter was married there a few years ago. “We were going for a natural look”, says Jean, who has most definitely accomplished her goal.

Jean’s garden is adorned by statuary either acquired in, or inspired by, trips to India. Two ornate white marble benches sit parallel to each other beneath a canopy of Magnolia trees that they planted when the trees were four feet tall.

A trickling stream with gradually stepped waterfalls, and a dry stacked flagstone surround, brings continuity to the hardscape found in the rest of the garden.

A long path of large flagstone boulders meander through creeping thyme and creeping phlox. Jean tells me that I have just missed a good show put on by the creeping phlox. One of the varieties of thyme has just started setting on tiny, white flowers.

There is one large patio near the house where Jean says, “the family gathers”. It’s well appointed, with comfortable patio chairs, and plenty of side tables for resting a drink. Knockout roses and an apricot colored variety of rose surround this patio, along with other perennials, including a very healthy purple clematis. The only thing for guests to decide is in which of the many beautiful seating areas they’re going to relax.

Congratulations on your accomplishments, Jean and TJ!

To nominate someone for the garden of the month award, or learn more about Boone Country Garden Club, email BooneCountryGardenClub@gmail.com.