Get ready for an exclusive opportunity to discover some of Northeast Ohio’s most exquisite private landscapes. On Saturday, July 12, the Garden Conservancy's Open Days program invites garden lovers to step inside two breathtaking, hidden oases in Cuyahoga and Summit Counties, accessible to the public for one day only. Prepare to be inspired by diverse horticultural artistry, with each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The featured gardens are:
The Potting Shed Garden, Shaker Heights, OH. Don't let its size fool you—this garden is a masterclass in maximizing space! Meander through its interconnected garden rooms and you'll be amazed at how much there is to discover. Every turn reveals a new delight: a peaceful fishpond, a serene woodland shade garden, and a whimsical surprise stream that adds a touch of magic. You'll also find native plant gardens teeming with life, the gentle hum of beehives, and vibrant, lush container plantings bursting with color. Keep an eye out for antique artifacts tucked away in unexpected corners, each with a story to tell. And for a deeper dive into garden history, step into The Potting Shed, where you can admire antique garden pottery and enjoy captivating nature exhibits.
Cat-n-Fiddle Garden, Akron, OH. Breaking free from conventional design, this garden’s creator has crafted a vibrant, personal oasis on less than half an acre. This evolving space prioritizes lush foliage and unique plant combinations, inviting visitors to unwind and dream. Upon arrival, the front garden offers a distinctive, four-season welcome, setting it apart from the surrounding neighborhood. A surprisingly engaging walkway between two homes leads to the deck garden, overflowing with a diverse collection of annuals and tropicals. The journey culminates in the back garden and patio, a shaded haven bordering a Metro Park forest. Here, two water features, various sculptures—including an 8-foot Sasquatch—and a gas fire table create an inviting hangout zone, ensuring year-round interest even in Ohio's winters.
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: Residential Landscape Design – Thinking It Through
Garden enthusiasts are also encouraged to join a special "Digging Deeper" event at Cat-n-Fiddle on July 12, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This program, "Residential Landscape Design: Thinking It Through," guides participants through crucial planning stages. Explore your goals for a space, differentiate between needs versus wants, and formulate a realistic budget. Understand potential restrictions like codes or HOA rules. Finally, delve into the who, how, when, and why of your space, discussing conceptual ideas for its use, frequency, and desired atmosphere—even considering year-round enjoyment. Tickets for this Digging Deeper event are $40 per person; $30 for members of the Garden Conservancy. For more information, click here.
