Vashon Island Garden Tour 2015

To help plan your Tour, here is a preview of the amazing gardens and Garden Art Market, a schedule of gardening seminars, and sneak peek of artists in the gardens. Tickets—$25, valid both days—are available at VAA, Heron’s Nest and VashonAlliedArts.org.

Edna & James Dam
Behold the verdant hillside paradise of Edna and James Dam. Soak in canopy-top views, meander down sloping garden paths and descend into a woodland ravine where a curious Cretan-style labyrinth of moss-covered logs awaits. Get inspired not only by this garden’s extraordinary beauty, but by its wildlife-friendly concept that relies on a diverse selection of deer-resistant plants, rather than fencing, to maintain its luster. On your trek down, take a moment to admire an English-style long grass meadow, small vineyard and lush native vegetation.

Amy & Joseph Bogaard - Hogsback Farm
Explore Hogsback Farm, a 13-acre agricultural gem founded by Amy and Joseph Bogaard. In its greenhouses and fertile fields, feast your eyes on a veritable cornucopia of organically grown vegetables and fruits—from leafy greens to heirloom tomatoes, blueberries to plum trees. The small family operation sells produce and eggs via its self-serve farmstand, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), “u-pick” flower garden and local restaurant partnerships. The land, formerly owned by Tok Otsuka, played a significant role in Vashon’s historic strawberry production.

Sue & Scott DeNies - Madrona Meadows
Find peace at Madrona Meadows, the idyllic and pastoral property of Sue and Scott DeNies. Peruse an impressive vegetable garden, admire blooming flowerbeds galore and marvel at the detail of a French country-style post and beam barn designed by renowned local craftsman Frederic Brillant. Take a wooded trail through native madronas, Douglas firs and salal, and rest on a quiet bench while soaking in the surroundings (a great spot for bird watching). Finish up your tour at a serene pond surrounded by mature forest and plenty of wildlife.

Jan & Bill Riley - Maury Island Winery
Experience true local terroir at Maury Island Winery, the home of Jan and Bill Riley. A sprawling vineyard of pinot noir, pinot gris and pinot précoce grapes (around 1,600 plants in all) makes this estate a vigneron’s dream come true. The sunny, west-facing hillside was first planted in 1980 with 13 different varieties. After twenty years of experimenting, Bill discovered which types of grapes grow well in the Puget Sound climate before replanting in 2000. Thirsty for more information? Attend Bill’s talks Saturday and Sunday at noon.

Anita Halstead & Kelly Robinson
Fall head over heels for the storybook charm of Anita Halstead and Kelly Robinson’s property in historic Dockton. Lush, joyful gardens surround their turn-of-the-century craftsman home, comprised primarily of plants given as gifts by neighbors, family members and friends. Tradition meets whimsy at this garden, where a 30-foot boxwood topiary serpent welcomes visitors, a giant chessboard awaits game enthusiasts and a geometric stone labyrinth beckons. Enjoy pleasant views of Quartermaster Harbor while discovering funky garden art displays, tucked away in every corner.

Garden Art Market (Open to the Public)
18125 Vashon Hwy SW. Our Garden Art Market returns with an exciting array of Seattle-area artists and vendors selling creations in many mediums including tile, jewelry, textiles, woodwork, soap and sculpture, as well as plants and garden tools. New this year, a Vintage Market run by Islanders Tami Renno and Sarah Kassik features antique, vintage and shabby-chic garden décor. Once again, the Market is on the sprawling green in front of Puget Sound Energy (PSE) headquarters on Vashon Highway—an ideal stop for a midday nosh.

Artists in the Gardens
Works from these extraordinary artists will be exhibited in gardens and available for sale:
Penny Grist, mosaic sculpture; David Blad, ceramic tile; Mike Urban, metal sculpture; Brian Brenno, fused glass; Barbara Wells, glass/bronze and steel sculpture; Alex Echevarria, mosaic statuary.

Garden Raffle
Purchase $5 raffle tickets to win fantastic gardening equipment or services. Tickets available at Vashon Allied Arts, the gardens and Garden Art Market. Prizes can be viewed at the Garden Art Market weekend of the tour and include:
• 3-foot tall “shish-kabob” stone fountain, donated by Morrison Gravel (Port Orchard), $300 value.
• Large Japanese maple with free
delivery, donated by Island Home Center and Lumber, $400 value.
• 5 cubic yards of soil, delivered on Vashon, donated by Vashon Bark and Soil, $225 value.
• Gardening with Herbs class for small private group, donated by Herban Bloom. Light snacks and refreshments, $500 value.
• Assortment of gardening tools and equipment, donated by Vashon Ace Hardware, $250 value.
Garden Talks
Throughout the weekend, specialists share their knowledge and expertise to fuel inspiration and cultivate confidence to tackle garden projects. Consult your Garden Tour ticket/map for locations.
Celebrate the art of gardening and Vashon’s rural beauty! Saturday and Sunday, June 27–28