Avid gardeners to open the gate

THREE different but magnificent gardens in and around Bendigo will be open to the public next weekend.

The Central Victorian Goldfields Garden Trail, organised by Open Gardens Victoria, is set to bloom on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 November.

The first property, Clontarf, is an 1862 Homestead in Castlemaine which features cool colours, subtle foliage, and ornamental water.

Flora Hill is the location of the second garden, which demonstrates what can be created on a suburban block with garden rooms, outdoor living spaces, and sculptures.

The final location is Hedgehogs in Barkers Creek just outside Harcourt and is owned by Margot and Morry Rottem.

The pair have owned the property for 32 years, starting from nothing to create a tranquil setting which attracts birds and other wildlife.

“There was really nothing here and it was an old farm, so we started with a relatively small garden,” said Ms Rottem

“What we wanted to do was have a garden where there was a feeling of peace, a place for lots of birds and where we could grow food.

“Then it developed and we have various areas where there is no water, a very big food growing area and quite a large pond designed by Gordon Ford.”

The garden has an aspect of mystery with different areas to uncover and a water feature on every side of the house.

“It’s got sneak areas, so you never see the whole garden at once and walk around the path and see another bit of garden,” said Ms Rottem.

“I like the idea of surprises in a garden and hate straight lines.”

Tickets to each garden cost $10 or are free for children and more information can be found at opengardensvictoria.org.au.