Ken Druse and Margaret Roach discuss the benefits and intricacies of garden tours, highlighting the mutual learning opportunities and inspiration they offer to both hosts and visitors in the gardening community.
The Joy and Challenges of Garden Tours
Gardening enthusiasts often seek inspiration and education beyond traditional classrooms, finding it in visiting and hosting garden tours. During peak garden-visiting season, gardening expert Ken Druse discusses the benefits and intricate details of both roles with podcast host and gardening author Margaret Roach.
Who and What
Ken Druse, an author of 20 garden books and co-host of the Virtual Garden Club online class series, gardens in New Jersey and occasionally hosts tours. Margaret Roach, another expert gardener, joins him in sharing insights about their experiences as both garden tourists and hosts.
Where
This conversation takes place on Roach’s public-radio show and podcast, which airs in the Hudson Valley, Berkshires, and Litchfield Hills areas and is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Key Points
Druse emphasizes the learning opportunities that come from seeing how others manage their gardens, whether by spotting new plants or gaining fresh design ideas. Hosting, on the other hand, provides motivation for gardeners to refine and complete projects. It also allows for valuable interactions with visitors, exchanging tips and gaining “third eye” perspectives on their own spaces.
An Example Event
Druse recounts a recent instance where a storm hit his garden just hours before a tour. Despite the damage, he and Roach agree that visitors appreciate the authenticity and connection with real, imperfect gardens. This perspective is echoed in experiences shared by members of the Garden Conservancy, which organizes the largest garden-visiting program in the United States.
The Benefits
Both Druse and Roach note the mutual benefits of garden tours: visitors acquire knowledge and inspiration, while hosts gain new perspectives and motivation. Engaging with fellow gardeners, whether asking questions or sharing ideas, enhances the experience for everyone involved.
Conclusion
Garden tours, whether visiting or hosting, are invaluable for education and inspiration within the gardening community. Shared experiences and mutual learning opportunities make these events enriching for both seasoned gardeners and newcomers alike.
