By: Edir Coronado
This year’s Tour of Mountainside Gardens featured 6 well-manicured gardens scattered across Mountainside, with the intent to benefit the restoration and maintenance of the Hetfield and Levi Cory Houses. The gardens were breathtaking, the owners inviting, and the ambience was peaceful. The Tour of Mountainside Garden was a sight to see, full of inspiring ideas and calming moments. Although it may have escaped you this year, there’s always next, so make sure plan ahead and make time to view the magnificent gardens of Mountainside.
(above) Dinner from the Garden. The first stop on the tour was “Dinner from the garden.” This quaint garden has been maintained for two generations of gardeners and the new addition to the garden are perennials and vegetables. An elegant table for six, with a large umbrella for shade, is set up in the back, perfect for enjoying a nice summer meal full of veggies with friends.
(above) Last, but not least is the “This and That Garden”, the most diverse garden for sure. Maintained by its owner and professional gardener, it features a plethora foliage. This garden while meticulously maintained has an organic feel. You will find in the front portion of the garden; basil, parsley, and rosemary, while in the back you’ll see large leafed Japanese Petasites and Ostrich Ferns. All of this mingling with insects, bees, or woodpeckers.
(above) Secret Garden. The “Secret Garden” was the next stop on the list and with every turn there is a gorgeous surprise of lushness. Just when you think the garden has no more to offer, the shrubbery opens up and surprises you with a lovely pool. Perfect for poolside parties and lolling on lounge chairs.
(above) Tropical Oasis Garden. The next stop on the tour was the “Tropical Oasis Garden”, which brings the feel of Hawaii to New Jersey. This garden is complete with two palm trees, colorfully decorated furniture, serene music, and a small pineapple tree. There is no need to fly across the country for a tropical vacation, when it’s right in your backyard.
(above) Butterfly Garden. Down the road is the “Butterfly Garden” owned by a former New Yorker, whose passion for gardening runs so deep, she transported her garden from Staten Island to Mountainside before the house was even bought. It’s no wonder, with this dedication, that the Butterfly Garden is flawlessly shaped. Visitors can enjoy this
garden on the sunniest day and relax on the swinging bench surrounded by large, plush, trees.
(left) Fairy Garden. Right next door we have the “Fairy Garden”, a massive estate, with Greek inspired artwork. What captures most visitors is the serene brook that splits the garden. One could watch the water flow over the small wooden bridge or take a seat by the small manmade pond and enjoy the scenery.
