The 14th annual MBRC Garden Tour

Thursday, July 26, 2007, 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

Click here for a copy of the 2007 poster
Jackie & Patrick Gonda, Marquette
This garden has been evolving since the owners moved into their house in 2002. The first dramatic evolution came when six large cedar trees, which surrounded and darkened the front of the house, were removed. Following the removal, a raised perennial and annual bed that surrounds the front porch was installed. Perennials were planted in a platform bed using irises. Also in this bed are herbs that Jackie and Patrick use in their cooking: chive, mint, and lemon balm. A perennial bed along the fence has been developed. The backyard is a favorite resting and relaxing area, which features a raised rock platform with a stone Buddha surrounded by shade plants such as begonias, coleus and impatiens; this area is a meditation garden. Surrounding the shed are hosta, daylilies and calla lilies.



Diane Botsford, Marquette
Diane describes herself as a plant-a-holic. When she moved to this location fourteen years ago, she found only big pine trees and overgrown bushes. Thus, the journey began for this long-time vacant and neglected parcel. Two years ago, Diane's son and a friend dug a large pond. Although raccoons visited the pond and ate the fish, Diane takes it all in stride and states "I love gardening," adding "My sister is also garden crazy. I really enjoy the birds, the fish and the frogs that sing at night. I don't need to go on vacation. I have it all right here."



Quita & Jim Wright, Marquette
Wrights' garden has evolved more than fifteen years, growing with additions dictated by the gardeners' moods, inspiration, and time to spend. Inspired by a trip to England, a rock fence was installed using rocks hauled down the hill. Originally the entire garden was covered with trees, but the owners persisted with their own ideas and help with a bulldozer. Now they are delighted to share their garden with everyone.



The President's House at NMU, Marquette
President Les Wong and First Lady Phyllis Wong moved into Kaye House in 2004. The large property surrounding the residence is largely wooded and natural. Its park like setting is serene and peaceful. Many large rhododendrons surround the home as well as perennial and annual plants. Sculptures enhance the landscape. A large deck takes advantage of the beautiful setting off the back of the house and provides a perfect spot for entertaining and viewing the garden. On the backside of the property is a sunny site that Phyllis uses to plant a vegetable garden. Kaye House is generously shared by President and First Lady Wong for many university and community functions and is truly an asset to the City of Marquette and the Upper Peninsula.



Suzanne Shahbazi, Marquette Township
This garden was started by Suzanne when the house was built in 1995. It is mostly a perennial garden situated in a wooded site. The garden is enhanced by an archway, cedar potting shed, and a bench tucked among the trees. Featured flowering perennials are hosta, coral bell, iris, wild geraniums, bee balm, and hollyhock. Planters and baskets overflow with a variety of annuals.



David & Eileen Engstrom, Harvey
The Engstroms' garden showcases twenty different varieties of natural trees plus a few others they have planted. A waterfall runs down the front yard and has a fountain at the bottom. Along the waterfall you will see many perennials including hibiscus, begonia, German geranium, and many hanging pots. The Engstroms have been working on their garden and the flowers around the house since they married eleven years ago.



Norm & Sue Hefke, Harvey
Hefkes began developing their garden in 1999 with many loads of rotted sawdust from the old Gannon sawmill site, clay, and a lot of top soil. Their gardens have a variety of sunny and shady sites that showcase a self-seeded foxglove, a variety of Asiatic and trumpet lilies, rocket ligularia, spikes of foxtail lily, orange crocosmia, and a honeysuckle tree. In their vegetable garden you will spot a variety of produce, planted for continuous harvesting. Some plants taking center stage are winter squash suited for Marquette's weather and black raspberries from Mom's New York state garden. Watch for the root barrier trench.



Mary Ann (Paula) Kiesling, Harvey
Paula has been developing these gardens for 29 years. Two initial attempts to develop a lawn were fruitless. The solution lay in digging it all up to make multiple rock gardens, stepping stone walkways, a garden pool, and fountains. Shrubs, birds, butterflies and dragonflies enliven the ambiance. Sitting areas were added for rest and reflection. Two statues of Quan Yin (Chinese Goddess of Compassion) overlook the fountains. Garden ornaments are added to brighten the changing seasons of flowering plants. An inner meditation circle invites quiet contemplation. Please take care walking on the stepping stones since the surface is not perfectly level.




Please patronize the establishments that sold garden tour tickets:

Meister's Gardenplace, 1060 East M-28, Harvey
Forsberg's Flowers, Marquette & Ishpeming locations
Lutey's Flower Shop, 1025 North Third St, Marquette
Garden Bouquet, 2210 US41 South, Chocolay Township
Avant Gardens, 1621 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette
The Landmark Inn, 230 North Front St, Marquette
The Studio, 207 South Front Street, Marquette
Curves, Marquette

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