After several years hiatus, the Saugeen Shores ‘Tour of Gardens’ returned on July 12th (2025) hosted by the Southport Horticultural Society in support of Huron Shores Hospice.
This year’s Tour featured six local gardens, each unique reflecting an owner’s lifestyle and interest in gardening, plus one that has become a public garden – the Fairy Woods Garden Path. (Grenville St., Southampton)
For larger view, click on image
Lavender Garden: In only six short years, Cathy and John Nadalin created Garden Gate Farmstead, a sanctuary in Southampton for Cathy’s love of plants, their Clydesdale horses and their love of the land. Coming from a family farm near Cambridge, the couple happened upon the seven-and-a-half acre tract of land that was a mass of weeds and brambles. “We had a vision,” says Cathy Nadalin, “and somehow it happened.” Plants that were old friends came along with the move to the new home where, today, Cathy creates and sells lavender sachets and welcomes visitors. (319 Carlisle St., Southampton)
Traditional Heritage Home: The garden of Cathy and Peter Clark reflects nature. In the front and side yards are sun-loving plants while the backyard is a shady retreat complete with a water feature of flowering lily pads and hostas of many varieties surrounding a relaxing patio. “All the trees at the back we planted when we came 17 years ago,” said Peter Clark. “Now, they are giant and keep growing but create a perfect shade yard ideal for shade-loving plants such as the hostas and hellebores.” (36 Grosvenor S. Southampton)
Manicured and Forest gardens come together: “Starting from scratch’ on a new-build property is no easy gardening feat but, for five years, the Lamberts in Port Elgin have worked to create a merging of manicured garden with a forest delight where children can play and become a part of nature. A 15-year-old yarrow family heirloom lends a sense of legacy while a treehouse, and outbuilding that serves as a winter sauna and summer mini-theatre, captivate a new generation. (Westgate Dr.Port Elgin)
A Blank Slate comes alive: Jim Scattergood began his quest to change his new property on day one when he planted some 300 plants. Since then, the property has continued to evolve with hosta, day-lilies and heucheras that line the property against the tree-line background. Sprinkled throughout are whimsical creatures such as pelicans and a curious turtle. A beautiful Maple is the centrepiece on entering the circular drive with a rock-garden at the entrance. (Concession 4 Saugeen Township)
Organic working Farm with a love of Gardening: Linda and Martin Baumberger both have a love of the land and, since 1977, they have created a sustainable certified organic dairy farm along with a labour of love when it comes to gardening. The home has expanded to include perennial flower beds, heritage roses, native plants and young fruit trees. Along the adjacent highway to their property, the couple planted evergreen trees that have become a valuable windbreak during winter snows. Farming over 300 acres organically, that includes free-range chickens, the family maintains a conscious effort to sustain the environment along with their passion for their gardens. (Hwy. 21)
Previously explored was ‘Wit’s End’ at 75 Grosvenor Street, where a small yard was transformed into a cozy ‘wildlife and pollinator’ haven by Pamela Katch. A potting shed that encompasses 100-year-old Victorian woodwork, fairy lights and a magical chandelier is the perfect respite from a busy day.
