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ANNUAL POND TOUR

The 24th Annual Pond Tour countdown has begun!

Please renew your membership to receive your complimentary ticket to Pond-O-Rama. Member tickets will be available for in-person pickup at the May and June SLWGS Meetings . Members who would like their ticket sent by mail are asked to pay for postage.

This year's tour features 24 beautiful water gardens and features throughout the St. Louis area. 

Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles ,  for their support in making this annual event successful.

Additional thanks to our many advertisers who sponsored our full-color ticket booklet this year. Tour guests are in for a treat!

If you have questions or would like to volunteer for the 2024 Pond-O-Rama Tour, please contact Ginny Mueller .

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Get Involved

The St. Louis Water Garden Society hosts a pond and water garden tour in June. This annual event, affectionately dubbed  “Pond-O-Rama,”  is our premier fundraising event. In fact, Pond-O-Rama attracts visitors from all over St. Louis and beyond. It is no surprise why. First, the beauty and peacefulness of water gardens is obvious. Plus, the tour includes some of the most spectacular private and commercial gardens in St. Louis. Tour guests love the intimate experience. Similarly, our hosts get to enjoy showing off their gardens and sharing information.

Please contact the Committee Chair,  Ginny Mueller  at  pondtour@slwgs.org  to learn more or to get involved.

Pond Facts to Ponder

There are more than a million ponds in North American. Aside from adding aesthetic and relaxation value, a backyard pond provides a habitat for wildlife and pollinators, stores water for dry periods/droughts, and reduces erosion.

Each drop of pond water can contain more than a million microscopic organism.

Pond sediment can bury 140grams of carbon per square meter every year.

There are at least 60 water lily species in the world, the largest discovered in 2022.

The lowest temperature Koi can survive comfortably is 4°C or 39.2°F.

Pond-O-Rama Sponsors

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Sincere thanks to our 2024 Pond-O-Rama Ticket Partners! Ticket booklets are available for purchase at these partner locations.

The St. Louis Water Garden Society is an organization of pond and water garden enthusiasts in the Greater Saint Louis area who meet to learn play, and enjoy their hobby together.

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Pond and Garden Tour features 11 homes

The Green River Pond and Garden Tour is a tradition going back over two decades.

Visitors to the Pond and Garden Tour can not only admire beautiful gardens but also learn usefull skills and tips for gardening and maintaining ponds - even keeping fish.

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Garden Pond Tour: My Favorite Outdoor Space

Summertime – and the livin’ is easy! It’s super hot out but I don’t care because I love summer. Especially when I can spend time enjoying my garden pond.

Everything is lush and green in my backyard and it’s my favorite place to be right now. I feel blessed because having a pond is like having my own vacation spot. It was installed by Aquascape, Inc. , which is where I work.

When I step outside and hear the waterfall, I’m instantly relaxed.

Almost every day is a new discovery of nature, and I don’t know what I love most. There’s the beautiful waterlilies that are a favorite. The blooms open in the morning and last a few days.

If you’re a gardener, you might want to consider adding a pond to your garden. There are so many varieties of waterlilies and new ones are being hybridized all the time – like this purple one called Violicious. It’s the first purple hardy waterlily.

I have two waterlilies in my pond – the Violicious and this pretty Madame Wilfron Gonnere waterlily. Both are hardy – meaning they come back every year like perennials. You can see one of my fish beneath the waterlily. It’s a golden orfe.

It’s hard to get good pictures of the fish. They never hold still for the camera! I love watching the fish swim in the pond. I have seven of them; one koi (not pictured), two exotic goldfish – the orange and white ones, a calico shubunkin, and two golden orfes.

And on occasion – I have frogs in the pond. In the spring we had a few toads, and now that it’s summer the frogs are here.

And yes, frogs really do hop from lily pad to lily pad.

You can grow waterlilies in a container if you don’t have a pond. Just make sure it receives 6 hours of sunlight per day. I have a peach-colored one in a Patio Pond .

My garden pond is less than a year old, but I’ve been busy planting in and around it.

I planted both pink and purple pickerel in the pond.

Outside of the pond I planted several types of coneflowers.

I have more plants in and around the garden but didn’t take close-up shots of all of them. Aquatic mint, pennywort, water celery, water hyacinth, hardy fig, coral bells, clematis, and more.

I hope you enjoyed touring my garden pond! I spend time out by my pond every day – it’s by far the best addition to my yard.

Visit Aquascape Inc. for more pond, waterfall, and fountain inspiration! You can buy a kit and do it yourself, or use their online locator to find a Certified Aquascape Contractor in your area.

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What a BEAUTIFUL garden pond! Thanks for sharing!

This is beautiful!!! We too have a pond, just a small one, and our boys (now 27 & 30) have enjoyed all of the fish, frogs, turtles, even ducks that have come visit our yard over the years. 🙂 The birds come and bathe in the little waterfall and in winter my husband puts in a heater to keep it from freezing and the dear come and drink. Wildlife needs a water source and we get to enjoy watching them use it. Loved seeing all the varieties of water lillies! Thank you for sharing this story.

Thank you for sharing. You are certainly blessed with your own little piece of heaven. All the flowers and plants are amazing and you obviously have worked hard to make it so beautiful. Lucky are the creatures who find their way to your pond.

Oh that’s pure heaven!! I dream of someday adding a pond to my garden, but I’m not sure how well fish would do in my zone 5a climate. What a wonderful place to relax at the end of the day!!!

I also live in Zone 5 (I’m in Illinois). The fish will hibernate over the winter as long as the pond is at least 24 inches deep. You just need to make sure you keep a hole in the ice for the exchange of gasses. You should go ahead and add a pond – you won’t regret it! 🙂

Your backyard pond is so lovely. You have done a beautiful job with all the plants surrounding it and on it. I’m so envious!

It looks so peaceful and your flowers are so pretty, do water lilies smell or just look pretty? You have so many cute frogs and fish its all just so wonderful., thanks for sharing with us.

your pond area is just so gorgeous! I am sure it’s a great spot to sit after a long day or first thing in the morning.

LOVE your pond! It’s beautiful and relaxing!

Discover the Magic of Tranquil Gardens. Nestled in the scenic town of Green River, United States, our tour offers a unique experience filled with breathtaking gardens and serene pond landscapes. Your support helps us showcase the beauty of nature in its purest form. Join us in exploring the wonders of the Green River Pond and Garden Tour and discover the magic of our vibrant botanical oasis. Your contribution makes a difference in preserving this enchanting destination for generations to come.

Creating backyard paradises since 1997.

Green River Pond and Garden Tour is a team of passionate garden enthusiasts who have been transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful works of art for over 27 years. Our expertise lies in designing and building backyard ponds that bring the soothing sounds of waterfalls and the playful presence of koi to your doorstep. We are based in Green River Wyoming and our garden homeowners draw inspiration from the unique landscapes of the high desert. 

We typically have twelve garden homes, each one unique in its own way. Our Pond Tour is free to the public. Don't forget your camera!   I Guarantee you will see something that you want to do in your garden and a photo is the best way to remember it.                                          If you have a question, don't hesitate in asking the garden homeowner. They have an abundance of ideas and how to achieve it.          We will have a Master Gardner a one designated garden home for those tricky questions.   You can pick up a tour guide two weeks before the tour at Riverside Nursery in Green River or Green River Chambers.  Guide information will also be on our Facebook page, greenriverpondtour or website greenriverpondtour.  

This is a one-of-a-kind event for Sweetwater County.  Don't miss your chance of strolling through some amazing and creative gardens.   Every garden home is a creation that the garden homeowner has achieved on their own.  You won't see any professionally landscaped gardens on this tour.     Hope to see you Saturday, August 3rd. 

Discover the Beauty of The Pond Tour:  Featured in Zone4 Garden Magazine,  online with Sweetwater Now,             Green River Star and              Rocket Miner newspapers. 

Green thumbs in the high desert: discover innovative gardening tips for success in green river, wyoming.

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Tour Dates Announced for the Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society Pond Tours

By Pond Network

Published on May 4, 2023

The Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society celebrates its 30th annual self-directed driving tour on five Saturdays in July and August. Each tour will feature up to 12 water features located in proximity. Tickets are $10 per person (age 14 and up) for access to all five tours in the greater Kansas City area. The tours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with one night party per tour sponsored by a local business.

Lotus Entertain You is the theme for the 30th Anniversary Water Garden Tour. Exotic water lilies and swaying lotus are sure to impress, while dragonflies and butterflies will put a smile on your face.

Tour dates and locations are:

– July 8, Missouri, north of the river,

– July 15, Kansas, Leavenworth, Wyandotte and Northern Johnson counties,

– July 29, Kansas City, Missouri, inside the I-435 Loop, Raytown and Independence,

– Aug. 19, South Missouri, Jackson, South of the Loop, Ray, and Cass counties, and

– Aug. 26, South Kansas, Southern Johnson County.

 Proceeds from the annual tour are used to build and sustain ponds for schools and other nonprofits. With your $10 ticket, you will receive a large tour book with maps and host-written pond descriptions. Tickets are available May 1 at www.eventbrite.com or our website, www.kcwatergardens.com. Follow the Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society on Facebook for updates, plein-air artist locations and information about the night parties.

1 thought on “<strong>Tour Dates Announced for the Greater Kansas City Water Garden Society Pond Tours</strong>”

Last year, I bought a physical tour booklet from hen house. Can I buy a physical one again this year somewhere?

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2022 Pond Tour Guide (June 25-26)

Free and open to the public. Accepting donations to support The Waco Wetlands .

Generously sponsored by:

Stroll through gardens and visit ponds in the Waco area. Whether you want ideas for creating your own water garden or just need a relaxing day, this self-drive tour has something for everyone!  From a small container pond to large in-ground ponds you will see a full array of ideas to inspire and delight!

The pond numbers correspond to the location numbers on the Tour Map page . To download a printable list of the ponds on the tour, click here .

Pond Etiquette

• Please do not ask to use the restrooms at pond sites.
• Please do not bring glass container into our yards.
• Please pick up any trash you may have dropped.
• Please control children for their safety.
• Please do not bring pets into our yards.
• Please do not smoke or bring alcoholic beverages into our yards.

Thank You from the Pond Owners

Enjoy your visit

Ron and Rose Haft’s Ponds 408 Cindy Lane, Lorena

Saturday 9 to 5 PM Sunday 12 to 5 PM

The Haft’s first pond was built in 2002, a small 600–700 gallon affair.  It was expanded to include a couple of tributary ponds with waterfalls added and then in 2015 added a 7,000 gallon koi pond that is 12’ by 16’ and 5’ deep. In all there are four connected ponds, ranging from the large one down to 100 gallons, plus two little puddles that are at the head of small streams. One pond is a settling tank to collect sediment and waste.  More recent additions include 4, three hundred gallon water lily tanks and a 750 gallon bog filter.  A swimming pool sand filter helps keep the water clear and drives the waterfall above the koi pond.  In 2020 several bog-plant beds were added and bonsai displays incorporated.

Directions:  From Waco on I-35 south and take the first Lorena Exit (322). Turn right at the stop sign right on Old Lorena Rd., FM 2837.  Take the first left after railroad tracks onto Williams Dr. and then the second left onto Cindy Lane.

Harv and Georgia Peterson’s Ponds 700 Fox Ridge Rd., Lorena

This backyard oasis has two 6,000 gallon ponds, two streams with waterfalls that flow into the lower pond, and a mega waterfall cascading into the upper pond.  A large 4’ X 24’ X  24” deep bog with two waterfalls and a stream also flow into the upper pond.  The birds, frogs, fish and dragonflies love their aquatic environment as we do.

Directions:  Take FM 2837, Old Lorena Rd., west to Chapel Road and turn left.  Go 1.2 miles and turn left onto Belver Rd., go to the Y intersection and bear left onto Fox Ridge Rd.  Go to the first driveway on the right.

Spencer Gardner’s Pond 149 County Rd 424A, Lorena

Built in 2021 against the house foundation the roughly 5000-gallon pond has a bog and a stream that helps to keep the water clear. It also provides a unique view from inside as water can be seen from every window. All of the koi hatched from eggs collected at another pond. It is about 4 feet deep at its deepest point and most of the rocks have been hand collected over the years. The pond also contains red shiner minnows instead of the usual mosquito fish and numerous species of frogs and other wildlife visit the pond frequently

Directions:  Head down hwy 77 to Golinda, turn left on East Central (next to Golinda County Store), then drive about a mile and a half and turn right onto Buckner Rd. Drive past the first street (424B) and take a right onto the second street 414A. We are the first driveway with a green fence and gate.

Bevil Cohn’s Pond 251 Cross Creek Road, McGregor

Just a 10 minute drive from Richland Mall out Hwy 84 across from the McGregor Airpot you will find Bevil’s Pond. There will be a Mardi Gras celebration around the pond.  It is home to butterflies, red dragonflies, and frogs.  Hibiscus plants blooming in pots bring color to the area.  Plumerias from Hawaii bloom among the foliage. Lemon and lime trees will be providing fruit.  Passion vines show off their dramatic purple blooms.

There is a pergola with succulents and a shady patio for tropical plants.  A very large stag horn fern amazes guests.  Children are delighted by the playhouse in the back yard.

Originally built in 2001 the pond is an irregular oval, approximately 8’ X 10’ and 3’ deep.  A tractor was used to dig the hole and old carpet pads the liner.  An antique bathtub filled with umbrella plants, elephant ears, and canna lilies provides the bio veggie filter.  In 2015 7,000 pounds of rock were added for edging and to create the waterfall.  A filtration system of barrels, rocks, and sand was added to improve water quality.

Directions: Take Hwy 84 west towards McGregor.  Across from the McGregor Airport, turn left onto Oak Creek Circle and then curve left onto Cross Creek Road.wards McGregor. Turn Left onto Oak Creek Circle and then left onto Cross Creek Rd.

Susan Maxey’s Pond 107 Whistling Wind Tr, McGregor

Directions:  107 whistling wind trl McGregor Tx it is located between Woodway and McGregor in Sunwest addition across from the McGregor airport. Turn into Sunwest addition (from Waco that would be left). Make a right on stage line road and then a left onto whistling wind. 4th house on the right. 

John and Susan Peitsmeyer’s Pond 205 Lake Drive, China Spring

Come out to the country and enjoy a beautiful above ground water garden oasis.  It is surrounded by a uniquely landscaped yard including fruit trees, vegetables, grape vines and much more.  Bring the kids and experience the joy of true country living.  We have chickens, wild rabbits, deer and a natural bird sanctuary.  We have a 2,400 gallon, 2-tiered pond with a waterfall.  It is a home to many koi, large goldfish and frogs.  Don’t miss the serenity of hundreds of rolling wooded acres with a view of a beautiful lake as our backdrop.

Directions:   Continue on Twisted Oak Lane and turn right onto Baylor Camp Rd., when you come to a T bear left to stay on Baylor Camp Rd., when you come to the stop sign turn right to stay on Baylor Camp Rd., at China Spring Rd., FM1637, turn left and go 4.8 miles and turn left onto Bend of the Bosque.  Turn Left onto Lake Dr.

Mindy Lawrenz’s Pond 5200 Links Dr., Waco

We wanted a relaxing, zen-ful area to enjoy from the backyard or sunroom, come enjoy it! This is our first pond but we created a natural feel. Approximately 2000 gallon pond with a waterfall and grid system for filtration. The goldfish are happy and enjoy the company of many birds, dragonflies, and frogs. 

Directions:  From China Spring Highway and Flat Rock road. Take Flat Rock Road and turn left on Country Lake. Home is located at 5200 Links Drive, Waco on the corner of Links Drive and Country Lake. 

Ron and Donna Linderman’s Pond 1158 Bend of the Bosque, China Spring

Saturday 9 to 5 PM (Only)

Come out and look at this peaceful pond. Striking Koi fish swim with a graceful swivel. With the sound of food, they respond Coming closer to the surface to grab a nibble. A few goldfish dance alongside the Koi. Scenic waterfall cascades into the stream. The bubbling sound of water for all to enjoy. Sitting on the bench allows you to dream. Rocks and shells and shade form the basis. Rose garden adds to the allure of the oasis.

***This small 400 Gallon Koi Pond is about to be transitioned from chemicals and UV to a 30 square foot bog.

Directions:  Continue on Twisted Oak Lane and turn right onto Baylor Camp Rd., when you come to a T bear left to stay on Baylor Camp Rd., when you come to the stop sign turn right to stay on Baylor Camp Rd., at China Spring Rd., FM1637, turn left and go 4.8 miles and turn left onto Bend of the Bosque.

John and Jan Enders’s Pond 111 Twisted Oak Lane,  Crawford

Welcome to a one acre oasis of beautifully landscaped yard with a 550+ gallon pond on the side of a beautiful patio.  A large Bronze Heron spitter sculpture and a waterfall are nestled in the rock patio with a wisteria covered pergola.  There are many interesting and unique features to this yard and pond to make you want to take the drive.

Directions:  Go North on Highway 6, past the Highway 185 intersection where there is a traffic signal light.  Drive on Highway 6 for 1.8 more miles to Baylor Camp Road.  Turn right and go another 0.9 miles to the main entrance of Woodfield subdivision.  Turn right on Twisted Oak Lane and it is the 6th house on the left.

Ron and Lori Galt’s Pond 360 Winding Trail, Crawford

About 4 years ago we decided to build a Japanese Garden in our back yard. We now have two ponds connected by a winding stream and numerous plants that are still growing. We have a small wooden bridge, over the stream, leading to a large red Torii Gate guarded by two Terra Cota Warriors, that opens to a view of the river below in the canyon. The upper pond is covered by a Tea House and has a small Goddess standing in the middle that the many fish swim around. The bottom pond is guarded by a large Dragon, made of rocks found in our yard, that has several large Koi and many lily pads.

Directions:  Take highway 6 to Highway 185 (Cedar Rock Pkwy), or Highway 84 to Highway 317, to the City of Crawford. At the only flashing light, drive north towards Valley Mills on Highway 317 about 1 mile, to Winding Trail on the left. The entrance to the Garden is through the Garage and guarded by a Samurai Warrior

Becky Parton’s Pond 436 Donaldson Lane, Waco

I invite you to visit these two recently built ponds. The smaller one features a functioning antique pump that was actually used at my Mom’s childhood farm! It is surrounded by beautiful, large geodes that my Dad, the rockhound, provided. The larger one has the sound of a waterfall and the fun of watching goldfish! In 2022, I added a bear themed fountain at the top of the waterfall that serves as a bird bath. There is a seating area where you can dip your toes in the water and enjoy viewing the plants including numerous elephant ears. The one acre property is a work in progress with fruit trees, wildlife habitats, an enclosed “catio”, a Noah’s Ark rubber ducky display, and more. I want to thank all the pond members who provided fish, plants, and advice these past four years!

A wonderful foster dog is available to meet at this location!  Get a preview of “Grace” at: See video .

Directions:  Take Hwy 6 and exit University Parks. Travel toward I-35/Baylor. You will pass the equestrian center. Take a right on the gravel road after the practice golf course – Donaldson Ln. (You will see a small RV park now to the left.) Continue down the road – I am the first brick house on the right with the bear mailbox and the Texas windmill. You can park in my driveway or next door at the empty house. Walk through the open gate to the backyard. Don’t be surprised if a friendly neighborhood dog or two greets you.

Jay and Elizabeth Trout’s Pond 725 Tahoe Trail Dr., Hewitt

After several years of enjoying a small, preformed liner pond we decided to upgrade. Our fish now live in a 1000-gallon pond with a natural bog. Home to two koi and some goldfish. Many birds visit us too. 

Directions:  Just off of Spring Valley Rd behind Spring Valley Elementary. 

Dave and Jerri Henry’s Fountain 8708 Gladedale Dr., Woodway

Saturday 8:30 to 10 PM (Only)

Enjoy an amazing music and light show! This 500-gallon fountain contains 11 water jets with a separate pump and LED light fixture on each nozzle. The spray height and light colors are computer controlled and choreographed to music.

Saturday evening only!

Directions:  From US-84 take the Estates Drive exit. Follow Estates Dr. for .4 miles and then turn right onto Gladedale Dr. for .2 mile.

Richard and Sue Wilshire’s Pond 860 Shilling Drive, Elm Mott

We’ve lived here for about 38 years and have a total of 8 acres that we have landscaped with many different native plants. After several years of enjoying a small preformed liner pond we decided to upgrade after going on the 2021 Pond Tour. This spring Sue and I constructed our new above ground pond using retaining wall blocks with a 40 mil liner with a natural bog made from a 110 gallon water trough. It’s home to 2 koi and several goldfish and numerous water plants. It’s visited regularly by Cardinals, Bluebirds, Yellow Finches, Black Capped Chickadees, Hummingbirds, Painted Buntings, Mockingbirds, House Wrens, Blue Jays, Mourning Doves, Red Headed Woodpeckers and an occasional Roadrunner. We also have a 12” x 16’ greenhouse I built for Sue last fall for her plants during the winter.

Directions:  From I-35, take Farm to Market Road 308 West, Shilling Drive will be the 5th Street on the right, it only turns right, follow it for about ½ mile, our driveway is on the right, it has a pipe and wagon wheel entrance with a Flying W hanging from the crossbar, when you turn in the drive, go past the home on the left and follow it straight down to our home. From Farm to Market Road 933, go north to Chal Bluff, take Farm to Market Road 308 East, Shilling Drive will be the on the left just as you get to Elm Mott, when you turn on it there will be 4 brick duplexes on the right, follow it for about ½ mile, our driveway is on the right, it has a pipe and wagon wheel entrance with a Flying W hanging from the crossbar, when you turn in the drive, go past the home on the left and follow it straight down to our home.

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North texas water garden society: pond tour - dfw.

The 27th Annual Tour of Ponds is a 2 day self-guided tour of 48 members ponds all across the entire Metroplex. The tour also consists of 14 ponds that are on the enchanted night tour that are open till 11 p.m. The ponds span as far north and south as Ennis to Anna and east to west as Mesquite to Forth Worth.

Our tour book guide features 48 pond listings, descriptions, directions and color pictures. It also includes a map and pond related articles of interest. One book per carload will get you access to all 48 ponds. Each book is $20 and can be purchased from May to June at any of the retailers below or online.

Tour books will be available May 2018.

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27th ZENsational Austin Pond and Garden Tour

June 4, 2022 @ 9:00 am – June 5, 2022 @ 5:00 pm

27th ZENsational Austin Pond and Garden Tour ~ JUNE 4th & 5th, 2022 ~ The Austin Pond Society is once again sponsoring our charitable tour of spectacular ponds and gardens throughout the greater Austin area. Our showcase ponds selection includes some of the classics as well as new ponds on the tour. We named this tour “ZENsational” as we think the tour will emphasize serenity and provide an experience that all visitors will remember! This year we have a stronger emphasis on DIY ponds, with some Asian/Japanese themed water gardens mixed in with some amazing professionally built water gardens. June 4th (Sat.) will be reserved for a tour of the North area ponds (9am to 5pm). June 5th (Sun.) will be reserved for a tour of the South area ponds (9am to 5pm). Each visitor will require a ticket. Once you register online, you will get a receipt for your payment and a ticket. Please keep the receipt and/or the ticket in print or digital format. On the day of the Pond Tour, present your ticket or receipt at your first Pond, to get a wristband. This wristband will be your pass for both days of the tour.

*Kids 12 and under are free. Pets are not allowed on the Tour. *Registration for the Pond Tour!

Tickets are available for: – $20 to early registrants (early ticket sales open till June 3rd @ 10PM ) – $25 if purchased on either day of the tour, at any pond location. (This will be online payments only as no cash will be transacted at pond locations).

Check it out…  Email  [email protected]  for more information, or  learn more about the event on the Austin Pond Society website.

Austin Pond Society

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The Garden Club of Georgia, Inc.

May 20, 2023 @ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Magnolia Garden Club in Cartersville hosts its annual Pond and Garden Tour. Events include plein air artists at work, Booth Artists’ Guild, music.

For details search Facebook or Eventbrite: Search “2023 Pond and Garden Tour”

or email: [email protected]

phone: Vicki 770-547-3228

Proceeds fund scholarships, grants and Junior Garden Club projects and other club philanthropy.

Tickets are $20, Pre-sale tickets $15 at Eventbrite

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Laurel District Annual Meeting 2024

• Tosai Auction 2024
• MPKS Koi and Trade Show
• Garden & Pond Tour
• Upcoming Events

2023 Pond Tour Maps

MPKS Annual 2023 Garden & Pond Tour

July 15 th – 16 th    and  July 22 nd – 23 rd    

The Midwest Pond & Koi Society invites you to visit our member’s gardens and ponds. This year is our 32 nd year of MPKS members opening their backyards to the public. The dates are July 15 th , 16 th , 22 nd , and 23 rd . The hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on each of the 4 days.

The Garden and Pond Tour is divided into regions to help minimize the travel time and increase your enjoyment of leisurely visiting the gardens and ponds. The Tour is self-guided, so you may pick and choose to visit one or all of the many beautiful gardens and ponds listed.

The four regions are:

• Saturday       July 15 th       Southwest / West Region
• Sunday         July 16 th       South Region
• Saturday       July 22 nd      North / Northwest Region
• Sunday         July 23 rd       Central Region

For each region, there is a map(s) indicating all the participants in the region. Following the region map(s) is a descriptive narrative of each garden and pond. This includes the address and a description of the garden and pond, along with directions on how to get to the address.

The garden and pond tour maps are available for purchase at the vendors listed on the MPKS website . The cost is $20.00 per family and allows you to tour all four days .

Pond tour maps may also be purchased directly from MPKS.

Possible towns within a region:

Saturday, July 15  Southwest / West – Downers Grove, Lombard,  Carol Stream,  Naperville, Yorkville, Elburn, Batavia, Wheaton.

Sunday, July 16  South – Bolingbrook,  Shorewood,  Willowbrook, Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, Lemont, Frankfort, Orland Park, Western Springs, Chicago .

Saturday, July 22  North / Northwest –  Waukegan, Glenview,  Hawthorn Woods,  Rolling Meadows, Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights,  Hanover Park, Northbrook, West Dundee, Chicago.

Sunday, July 23  Central  – Lombard,  River Forest,  Riverside, North Riverside,  Brookfield.

2024 Pond Tour maps are available at:

What’s happening.

• Tosai Auction
• Pond Tour Info
• Rehoming Fish and Equipment

What’s New

• MPKS 2023 Election Ballot
• New Pond Snydrome
• Who’s on pHirst?
• MPKS 2022 Nominating Ballot
• General Info
• Koi and Ponds

Wexford Garden and Pond Tour back in bloom with 11 inspiring sites

After a two-year hiatus, the Wexford Garden and Pond Tour is blooming again.

Discover the rich landscapes created at 11 outstanding properties during self-guided tours on July 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A bonus night tour of three select properties will be held from 8 to 10 p.m. on July 11.

A percentage of the proceeds will support clean water projects in Uganda and a girls’ school and skill center in Pakistan.

“This tour is a fabulous way to spend a day outside enjoying some lovely properties that you’d never get to see any other way,” said producer Debra Dion Krischke, the founder of Inspired Women Paying it Forward , a faith-based non-profit organization.

Highlights of the tour include raised bed veggie gardens, bronze sculptures, bridges, fairy houses, waterfalls with ponds and lush cultivated gardens.

The tour ranges from do-it-yourself ponds and gardens to multimillion-dollar estate gardens tended by professionals.

Krischke said supporting such projects helps the organization live out its mission statement: “From our abundance of water, we will ‘Pay it Forward’ to help others without.”

Krischke said the tour can be more than just a great way to enjoy the artistry of finely cultivated gardens.

“This is a great gift for any garden enthusiast,” she said. “These homeowners are a wealth of knowledge willing to share their best practices. This will be a day well spent and you’ll walk away re-energized and full of ideas.”

Major sponsors of the garden and pond tour are Soergels Landscape and Aquascape, Kozi Media Design, Eichenlaub Outdoor Living and MDL Landscaping.

The starting point for the tours is Graeters Ice Cream shop on Perry Highway in Wexford, where participants can pick up maps between 9:30 and noon on the day of the tour.

All the homes along the tour are within a 15-minute drive of the shop.

For more details about the tour and a link to buy tickets, which cost $36.50, visit WexfordPondTour.com .

Tony LaRussa is a TribLive reporter. A Pittsburgh native, he covers crime and courts in the Alle-Kiski Valley. He can be reached at [email protected] .

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North Side favorite Gus & Yiayia’s to open for the season

724-935-6100

Wexford garden & pond tour, returning july 2025, "from our abundance of water, we’ll pay it forward to those without. ".

So much to see and enjoy! From DIY'ers to Professional Masterpieces you can feel the love and artistry everywhere!

You’ll see an abundance of Gardens with a variety of plants and interesting designs. Gardeners seem to have no limits as to their creativity and we are lucky to have some fabulous Gardens on showcase along with our ponds. From raised- bed veggie gardens complete with vertical plantings to kitchen herb gardens , you’ll walk away at days end with lots of ideas! Got Deer? See a ton of potential solutions.

In all shapes and sizes, these ponds and water features are a joy to behold! You’ll see fabulous happy fish and flourishing pond plants. Be sure to ask the homeowner about any personal tales of adventure with their streams, ponds and water features including the ever present threat of Heron and potential safeguards.

FAIRY HOUSES

Some of our properties will have Fairy Houses for your enjoyment! You have to keep your eyes open to witness these illusive fairies, but they have created houses and villages and are certainly very happy! These whimsical habitats are built by children, families, gardeners and nature lovers and are your’s to enjoy on this tour.

Interested in sponsorship or placing an AD in our Keepsake Program? ...MORE INFO

Gold sponsors.

Silver Sponsors

"Submitted by One Of Our Inspired Home Owners On This Years Tour....."

Latest News

Minnesota Water Garden Forum

Have you joined the Minnesota Water Garden Forum on Facebook?  This Group is a gathering place for people who love water gardening.  You are welcome to share photos and experiences and seek help for problems with your pond, garden or fish. Invite your friends!

April 14, 2024 General Meeting

April 14, 2-4 pm, Bachman’s on Lyndale Ave Featured Speaker:  Tim Rick, owner and lead designer of DIWhy. How to Build a Pond Water Feature : Tim will walk you through step-by-step how to construct an aesthetically beautiful water feature that is functional and fun.  Things to avoid and tricks of the trade.  More info: CLICK HERE .

2024 MWGS Spring Plant & Fish Sale

May 10-12 at the MN State Fair Grounds with the Friends’ Plant Sale.  There will be many new plant varieties as well as old favorites. Download the 2024 MWGS PDF Catalog   View the Online Water Plant Catalog  To Volunteer

Upcoming Events

2024 spring plant and fish sale at state fairgrounds, may 10 @ 8:00 am - may 12 @ 2:00 pm, june 16, 2024 general meeting, june 16 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, august 18, 2024 general meeting, august 18 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, our mission is to increase the enjoyment and enthusiasm for water gardening through promotion, education, and shared experiences., love is a fruit in season at all times, and within reach of every hand. it is the greatest gift anyone can give..

16 Beautiful San Diego Gardens You Must See

A re you looking for your next dose of nature? San Diego is overflowing with stunning gardens that offer visitors a peaceful place to relax and unwind. 

Maybe you’re staying in the city or along the seaside, a tranquil paradise awaits regardless of your location. Keep reading to find out about the most stunning San Diego gardens.

San Diego Gardens – Balboa Park Gardens

San diego botanical building & lily pond.

The postcard cover of Balboa Park is the San Diego Botanical Building and Lily Pond. Constructed in 1915 – 1916, the Balboa Park Botanical Building is one of the biggest lath buildings on the planet.

As you walk through this enclosed quiet space, you’ll be treated to 2,100 permanent plants with a selection of lovely orchids and tropical plant species. You’ll quickly realize why this is not only the best garden in the city but also one of the most popular things to do in San Diego .

This Balboa Park icon is currently closed for renovations and we all hope they can complete it as promised in 2023. Stay tuned for updates!

Check out these Balboa Park Tours:

★ Balboa Park Walking and Photography Tour

★San Diego Balboa Park Highlights Small Group Tour with Coffee

★Private Balboa Park Segway Tour ★San Diego Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Palm Canyon

One of Balboa Park’s hidden gems is the gorgeous Palm Canyon. This secluded walking trail takes visitors through vibrant forests before reaching a striking wooden rope bridge to the Alcazar Gardens.

Open 24 hours a day and home to 450 palms, recognizable from their large green fronds, you won’t be able to get enough of the Palm Canyon.

Zoro Garden/Butterfly Garden

What was once home to nudists is now overflowing with butterflies. Surrounded by serene rock pools and august ficus trees, Zoro Garden was originally meant to be a territory for those who love to roam free while unclothed.

This six acre garden features everything a butterfly needs to live a long-lasting healthy life, including verbena, nectar plants, lantana, and blanket flower. You’ll love the beautiful butterflies here.

Veterans Memorial Garden

Another one of the beautiful San Diego gardens is the Veterans Memorial Garden, set up to celebrate the lives of the men and women who have fought in the United States military.

It’s a small one acre space split into three parts, the sea, land, and air gardens. In the middle of all three is a huge statue of a WWII B-24 Liberator.

Trees For Health Garden

Enjoy three and a half acres of 70 species of medicinal plants at the Trees For Health Garden. This garden was set up to promote the power plants contain to help people heal.

Keep an eye out for the five plaques which describe each species’ taste and smell.

Kate O Sessions Cactus Garden

Are you bored of flower gardens? Then go and see the largest cactus in the whole of Balboa Park at Kate O Sessions Cactus Garden.

The area was developed in 1935 and is filled with imported African and Australian protea plants. This garden will make visitors feel like they’re in a foreign country.

Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden

If you’re in San Diego between March and December, you need to visit Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden.

These public gardens showcase 1,600 roses which are in peak bloom from April through May. Try heading down there on a Tuesday or Thursday, and you’ll see the Balboa Park Rose Garden Corps hard at work maintaining their beauty.

Florida Canyon Native Plant Preserve

Substitute your usual walking route for the miles of trails in the Florida Canyon Native Plant Preserve. Discover endless flora and fauna while wandering through these San Diego gardens.

Don’t feel comfortable navigating them on your own? The San Diego Natural History Museum often hosts informative guided tours at various times throughout the week.

Healing Peace Garden

Another garden in San Diego where you can learn about healing plants is the Healing Peace Garden. Saunter through food forests with tropical fruits and raised vegetable beds while listening to the sound of birds chirping in the background.

Why try to understand the process of plant healing alone when you can join one of the many workshops available to the public? They cater to all groups, from schoolchildren to adults.

California Native Plant Garden

Next up, we have the California Native Plant Garden comprising homegrown plants native to our great state.

This small display only has 36 plants that are drought tolerant and can be used for landscaping at home. Finding this spot can be a little bit tricky, go to the west end of the tennis courts at Morley Field, you’ll see a sign which will show you the way.

Casa Del Rey Moro Garden

Identical to the Moorish Gardens in Spain, the Casa Del Rey Moro Garden is a fabulous estate that was constructed for the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition.

Over the years, the grounds have been redesigned to keep up with the times. A model of a well in the Guadalajara Museum of Gardens has even found a place there.

The Desert Garden

Situated on a small 2.5 acre of land, the Desert Garden houses 1,300 plants from all over the planet. Some of those being alluring succulents and admirable drought resistant plants, perfect for water conservation.

To see the plants bloom, visit the Desert Garden from January through March. Of course, you can visit at any other time and there will still be plenty to see.

Australian Garden

San Diego is the second home for Australian plants since our climates are quite similar.

Head over to the Gold Gulch Canyon for an awe-inspiring presentation of plant species that make up the Australian Garden, including Grevillea, Callistemon, and more. It’s a flower lover’s heaven!

San Diego Japanese Friendship Garden

A list of botanical gardens in San Diego’s stunning Balboa Park wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the charming Japanese Friendship Garden. It’s a unique representation of the friendship between San Diego and the Japanese city of Yokohama. 

Following a traditional Japanese design, the grounds are some of the most well-maintained in the state. They feature undisturbed koi ponds, creative stone designs, and various forms of Japanese architecture. Plus, of course, unbelievable views wherever you walk.

To enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, you must purchase tickets online beforehand. The great thing is that they don’t have a specific date, so you can use them whenever you wish.

Throughout the year, the Japanese Friendship Garden holds festivals that coincide with those in Japan, such as the world-renowned Cherry Blossom Festival, where you can see the famous bloom with your own eyes. It saves you from taking a trip over the Pacific.

Alcazar Garden

Last but certainly not least of Balboa Park Gardens is the Alcazar Garden .

Inspired by the gardens of Alcazar Castle in Seville, this space is surrounded by boxwood hedges and filled with soothing features. These include colored Moorish tiles, intricately shaped fountains, and an impressive pergola.

It’s no wonder past visitors have described the space as a Garden of Eden.

San Diego Gardens – San Diego Botanical Garden Encinitas 

Immerse yourself in the 37 acre enchanting San Diego Botanical Garden Encinitas. Embark around 4 miles of mysterious trails where you’ll be able to take in breathtaking seaside vistas. 

View over 5,300 plant species while popping between 29 special garden spaces, each increasingly different from the other and containing plants from regions all over the globe.

The San Diego Botanical Garden Encinitas has something for everyone. Send your little ones to the biggest children’s garden along the west coast. While they’re at play, meander through Amazonian rainforests in search of the premise’s huge bamboo collection, known to be the most sizeable in North America.

Although tickets for the San Diego Botanical Garden Encinitas can be purchased at the front desk, it’s recommended you reserve them online before because they tend to sell out, especially during the high season.

As you can see, there are so many wonderful gardens in San Diego. From secret grounds to urban oases, choosing where to go on your next stroll has never been so exciting.

Which garden will you visit first?

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Maria Haase

The post 16 Beautiful San Diego Gardens You Must See appeared first on San Diego Explorer .