Hillandale Garden History

Its was Steve and Rosalie who planted most of the garden. Many of the Rhododendrons and Camellias were planted as cuttings

We are told that Rosalie and Steve gave a tree or shrub as a gift to each other for birthday, Christmas or Anniversaries; a tradition we have continued today.

A Spring-fed creek has flowed continuously through the garden up until the current dry spell.

“Hillandale” was run as an Orchard, 15acres in total – the last remnants of which remain on the north side of the house.

Raspberries and many Vegetables crops were also grown and a good income was derived from Blackberries.

Since acquiring the property we have had a wonderful time bringing it back to its former glory, hopefully in keeping with the original gardener’s vision and with their blessing.

The vegetables beds have been added together with the plant nursery areas. Fences have been re-aligned and new ones added. An old Machinery shed on the north side of the packing shed has been converted to a garden “office”. The packing shed has also been renovated.

 

The garden has been extended to the east and incorporates a small dam not previously part of the garden.

Trees have been planted and a shrubbery above the dam added in 2003. Also in late 2003 a perennial border was planted – its is approximately 80 metres long and reaches its peak late Summer/Autumum.

 

A garden is always a “work in progress” and there are many more projects & areas we are looking forward to completing. We acknowledging the help of our wonderful children Jim, Tom, Anne-Marie, Jon, Joseph and friends, in our achievements in the garden to date.

 

Andrew and I hope you enjoy the garden as much as we do.