Birdland Garden

The Weisz Garden

Birdsong resonates throughout this sanctuary. Three Himalayan birch trees along the parking strip provide bird cover. In fact, this gardener has combined her plant addiction with the needs of her vocal feathered friends which seek protection in multi-leveled trees and dense shrubs. Multiple bird baths, fountains, nesting boxes and feeders address other aviary needs.

The garden evolved as the owner eliminated irritations: rhodies gone wild, excessive lawn, trespassing dogs, and a slope that limited planting space. The owner limbed up a 40-foot hedge of old rhodies and revealed shapelier limbs of evergreen shrubs beneath. Lawn diminishes yearly to accommodate expanding borders. A fence now protects the shade garden where hostas, ferns and blue star creeper flourish. Small trees sparkle with seasonal color. In early summer, the Chinese dogwood droops from the weight of its large snowy bracts. In summer, the lime green leaves of the Coral Bark maple enliven the rich purple of the 'Bloodgood' Japanese maple. In winter, white birch bark and fiery red branches of the Coral Bark maple form a striking silhouette against an evergreen backdrop. Golden variegated Euonymus brightens the garden continually. Japanese forest grass is the owner's favorite plant, which you'll find throughout the property.

The circular lawn is professionally maintained, but the owner minds the gardens. Rest in the shade under an "arborized" Pieris and Peace tea rose, and take in the sweep of lilies, variegated hostas and Japanese maples in front of the house.

The driveway leads us past a Harry Lauder's walking stick, a weeping red Laceleaf Japanese maple trained into a small tree and a smoke tree to the covered seating area in the backyard. Beyond that lie vegetable and blueberry beds. Ripe berries are tempting treats, BUT PLEASE DO NOT PICK THEM!

A pear tree, circa 1920, holds court in the back lawn. The evergreens in the northwest corner, fronted by Doublefile Viburnum and Star Magnolia, were planted for privacy. Thrift store and garage sale "finds" are stashed here and there.

Exiting along the north side of the house, you pass Mrs. Winder Hebe by the front porch, Redvein Enkianthus, roses and perennials.

This garden soothes and delights the spirit---no wonder the birds flock to it.

NOTE: Wheelchair accessible.