The Stream Garden

The Kitchen Garden

The house at Indian Springs was planned around the existing 2 acre lake.  Garden areas were identified and are being developed as integral features of the property.  Andy Upshaw of Pleasant Gardens has worked with me to plan and install all of the gardens.  Many of the plantings were inspired by the gardens at Monet’s House in Giverny which is filled with plantings which thrive in our area.  Many native and unusual plants are included as well.  The pool terrace has a tropical garden with some plants which must winter in the greenhouse and others which are hardy in our area.  

The gardens developed thus far include:  The Stream Garden, The Kitchen Garden, The Lake and The Lake Path Garden and The Pool Terrace Tropical Garden (see separate section).

The Stream Garden is the main feature at the entry to the home.  It is a recirculating stream through a small pond at the lower end which houses ornamental carp and water plants.  Rain chains carry roof drainage through the stream with an overflow in the pond to take excess water beneath the drive to the lower lake area.  The stream garden is planted with interesting water-loving plants and ground covers, and it is lined with hand placed river rocks and other flat or unique stones.  A covered stone bridge crosses the stream from the porte cochere to the front door.

The Kitchen Garden is a terraced area with lots of sun which is across the drive from the kitchen and provides the main view from this area.  A raised path leads to the greenhouse which is behind the garage and another raised bed is above this path.  Nasturtiums and creeping thyme line the path and a variety of herbs and vegetables are grown in the raised bed above the path.  There is a fence at the back of the herb and vegetable bed against which fruits are grown.

The Lake and Lake Path Garden