June 2015 Meeting: Garden Visit - Home of Jim and Sue Okas

The lupines were in full bloom in the lush
plantings between the sidewalk and curb.

Summer garden walks are a special treat that garden club members eagerly look forward to.




The June meeting kicked off the garden walk season in style with a visit to the home of Jim and Sue Okas in McFarland.

When Jim and Sue moved from Mineral Point a couple of years ago they left behind extensive gardens that Sue had nurtured over many years. So it was no surprise that she fell in love with the lush gardens surrounding their new home in McFarland.

A HUGE sumac that died recently but still lends architectural interest.
Two adjacent sumac trees are almost as large!

Their yard has many unique spaces including a pond with koi, a mini garden, tool shed and pergola.

The gardens were designed and planted 14 years ago by the previous owner. Sue brought some of her favorite miniature hostas, but the rest of the extensive plantings were already there. Plants include a variety of trees and shrubs, tree peonies, shade and sun perennials and ground covers.


















Sue has embellished the areas with natural materials such as wood and stone and other ornamentation.






























Just outside their back door you step onto a shaded patio next to the pond - the perfect spot to enjoy our treats and conversation.


























Thank you to Sue and Jim for sharing their wonderful gardens!