GARDEN TOUR — Michelle Peterson, from Sonshone Gardens in Clarks Grove, stands with the beautiful flowers in her greenhouse. Sonshine Gardens is the starting point for the inaugural Send A Kid To Camp Garden Tour set for Saturday, June 25. (Star Eagle photo by Kathy Paulsen)
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
There are some who have a special love and knack for flowers. They do outstanding things with them that many of us wish we had a talent to do. This year in particular, many Clarks Grove residents are adding colors to their homes. For a good reason too.
The inaugural Send A Kid To Camp Garden Tour, a fundraiser to help defray some of the cost of kids to attend camp, will be held on June 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at Addie’s Floral, Sonshine Gardens or from any of the homeowners prior to the event for $15, or $18 the day of the tour. Those attending the garden tour will be able to pick up a cup of coffee and a map at Sonshine Gardens in Clarks Grove, located at 200 1st Avenue, from 8:30 to 9:30 on Saturday morning.
Jim Tjepkema will be present at Sonshine Gardens to answer seed saving and pest problem questions or any other gardening issues. Those attending the tour will be invited back to the Sonshine Gardens, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., where they will be able to enjoy lunch while also learning to use herbs from your garden in recipes.
The garden tour will feature many yards open for display. The gardens of Rachel and Jeff Schei, Linda and Tom Lang, Rod and Sandi Serdahl, and June and Bruce Chrz will be available to tour. The Scheis moved into their new home five years ago. As avid gardeners for 15 years, they have really enjoyed seeing their new gardens come together.
The Langs have lived in their home in the woods for 36 years, and have developed a peaceful stream which runs through their wooded area. They feel their gardens reveal God's presence and feel close to Him while they are in their gardens.
Rod and Sandi Serdahl have lived in their home for about 11 years. Landscaping and gardening has always been a hobby for them. Their spot in the country has given them space to plant many different types of flowers. Their grandchildren absolutely love their Fairy Garden.
June and Bruce Chrz have lived in their home for 26 years. They have been gardening since day one. Their favorite garden is the "Shade Garden," as it is a great place to watch the birds. Their gardens also include many old farm items, including an old wheel barrow, weather vane and cow stanchion.
This garden tour is a fundraiser to help send community children to one week of camp at Dayton Oaks, "Where Faith Grows." If you have any questions, call Sonshine Gardens at 507-256-8070.
