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In just one year Sharon
St. John, a landscape designer, converted her yard from
a very unattractive weed patch to a gorgeous, lush garden.
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Located on a busy
street, Sharon created an outer garden for passers-by to
enjoy, while at the same time serving as a barrier that
provides a sense of privacy and security. |
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The
tall, free-standing, hand-tied copper trellis, provides
a frame for the various colored-leaves of the agaves, cactus
and germander. |
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The zen-like pebbles
provide interest at the side of the front walk. |
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Inside this soft barrier is her inner
garden – one that is peaceful and private and primarily
for the homeowner’s enjoyment. |
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Devoid
of grass, Sharon keeps the gravel pathways free of weeds
by not watering them. |
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While the yard features
more “tropical” plants than a typical Green
Garden, the principles of earth-wise landscaping are maintained.
Sharon uses no chemicals, except to kill the occasional
slug, and her water bills are exemplary. She uses only a
hand-held hose, plants all shrubs in Dillo Dirt and trims
her natives back in early August so they require less water
in the summer heat, then flourish again as the fall temperatures
drop. |
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Sharon’s collection of
antique pots adds contrast to the soft-textured plants throughout
the yard. |
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| The garden reflects two of her guiding principles
– “believe” and “create”. |
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On a
good day you can find Sharon enjoying the fruits of her
labor and planning her next garden. |
