Lot size: 2/3 acre on two adjacent lots, 100% native
Garden Age: Gardens were installed in stages, beginning in 1951 on Cherie’s lot, and in 2002 on Sue’s
Years on the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour: 4
The marvelous restoration project sisters Sue and Cherie (who own adjoining properties) have embarked on required removing the ivy that had invaded their parents’ original native garden, enshrouded the slope, and was strangling the majestic oaks and redwoods. Now local natives such as oso berry, hazlenut, huckleberry, ginger, iris, and false solomon’s seal are reappearing on their own. Eight kinds of fern are found in these shady gardens.
Other garden attractions
- As with every garden, this one has evolved with time, and natural events have been incorporated into the design. Trees removed due to sudden oak death (diagnosed during a Bringing Back the Natives tour), and large trees falling due to advanced age have provided more light, enabling new species to flourish. Fallen trunks have been incorporated into the garden, their beautiful forms becoming new garden features.
- When they were children growing up in this house in the ‘50’s, Sue and Cherie regarded their majestic oak and redwood shaded back garden as a beautiful wilderness; due to their inspirational efforts it is a paradise once again.
- The lovely back garden can be enjoyed from a flat area; if venturing down the steep slope wear good walking shoes, and watch for uneven steps and low oak limbs.
Gardening for Wildlife
Sue and Cherie report that they can’t keep wildlife out—“If you plant it, they will come!” Red tailed hawks, mourning doves, great horned owls, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, tanagers, finches, and wrens are among the birds that have been seen. Deer freely browse this wildlife-friendly garden.
