Laura & Charlie Heldreth's Garden

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Yesterday it hit 100 in Portland. I am not sure what the exact temperature was here in Vancouver but it was around that. Not the best day for a garden tour but we really wanted to see Laura and Charlie Heldreth's garden so we got there right at opening time while it was still cool. Fortunately, the garden is shaded!

The Clark County Natural Garden Tour is a yearly event that focuses on gardens that utilize organic practices that benefit wildlife and the environment. 

The Heldreth garden is not only beautiful and lush but it is also educational and Laura is an excellent teacher (she teaches horticulture classes at Clark College).

Along the front is a variety of shrubs, grasses , perennials and native plants. Vegetables are planted in raised beds along the hellstripe, yes vegetables, and Laura encourages her neighbors to take some. 

A wide range of plants highlights this terrific garden. 

In the front - 

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Tetrapanax (Rice Paper Plant)

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In the back garden, a tropical-like oasis awaits underneath giant fir trees -

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In addition to the lush plants are interesting art pieces and seating areas -

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One of my favorite plants was the Japanese Clethra (Clethra barbinervis). I did not know there was a clethra that grew like a tree.

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A palm!

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Thank you Laura and Charlie for opening your fantastic garden!

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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