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The landscaping of John Gibson, at 18309 Rock Sage Cove in the Westwind subdivision, has been selected as Elgin Garden Club’s winner for November’s yard of the month.
Gibson has lived at his cul-de-sac homestead for eight years and saw an opportunity to revisit his garden after last year’s big freeze cost him some shrubs, now enjoying each new planting.
The local landscape enthusiast enlisted the help of Skeye Sullivan, from McDade based Noble Lawn and Landscaping. The result is an inviting, colorful yard that stands out in the neighborhood, according to club members.
“Skeye and I both did the planning of my yard, so I want her to get credit for that, as well,” said Gibson.
Heat tolerant abelia bushes frame the sidewalk to the front door, a soft, striking multi-season plant that blooms in the summer and turns to bronze foliage in the fall. Behind is a backdrop of blooming green hostas with white flowers, purple ageratum as a hardy ground cover and Esperanzas trained on a lattice, ready to return every year.
Bright orange Pride of Barbados have come up as a volunteer in several places, to the delight of Gibson.
Now, Gibson’s yard reflects the music he plays as a pianist and organist at Elgin’s Methodist Church, according to those close to him.
A nonprofit organization, the Elgin Garden Club meets the first Tuesday of every month at the Grace Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 11th Street and U.S. Highway 290. Visitors and new members are welcome, starting at 9:30 a.m. with a meet and greet, plant exchange and refreshments, followed by a program.
The club takes pride in sharing the hard work of its green-thumbed members through the Courier.
