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On June 21 & 22, 2003 from 1-6 pm, the Huntsville Botanical Garden will feature a fundraiser designed to thrill local garden enthusiasts.  Three private town gardens in South Huntsville and three private country gardens in Hazel Green will be open to the public.  I've previewed the gardens for you, but I urge everyone to get out on Saturday and Sunday and explore for themselves.  Even though a picture is worth a thousand words.....these pictures really don't do these gardens justice--you really need to see them for yourself!

Randy & Karen Stephens, 446 West Limestone Road, Hazel Green

You'll want to spend plenty of time beneath the fine old oak and beech shade trees on this expansive two-and-one-half acre lot.  Randy and Karen, both avid gardeners, have traveled extensively adding to their impressive collection of Japanese maples (62 varieties!), hostas and daylilies (over 1200!).  With over 395 varieties of hosta alone, this magnificent verdant refuge is a collector's paradise.  Note the Drinking Gourd hosta, sporting perfect cup-shaped leaves by the front door and be sure not to miss the sweet collection of miniature hostas tucked into their own diminutive bed.  With thousands of daylily blooms and cascading blush roses, the sunny spots resemble a startling daytime firework display.  A soothing mixture of formal and informal, this garden will lift your spirits and fill you with peace, all at the same time.  It's hard to believe that the Stephens have only been working on this garden for about six years!

Click on image to see larger picture

Don't miss the chance to see these gardens for yourself!  Tickets may be purchased at the Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville or at each tour garden the day of the tour.  Tickets are $15; Garden members receive a $2 discount.

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©2003 Jean Brandau, licensed to About.com
Photo ©2003 Jean Brandau, licensed to About.com