Nestled on the 18th hole of Balboa Golf Course, the home of Gary and Lillian Letson is a warm and welcoming place. The front yard of the home is filled with crepe myrtles, weeping yaupon hollies, encore azaleas, abelia, roses and hostas. Scattered throughout the front yard is an eclectic mix of whimsical yard art that the Letson's have acquired from local antique stores. From the little brown burro that stands by the water pump to the repurposed birdcage porch light, each piece highlights the landscaping and enhances the beauty of the property.
A creek with a natural rock bed runs from one side to the back of the property, eventually emptying out to the golf course. The rock bed is an amazing site in itself when the creek is dry. The yard was completely natural when the Letson's purchased the property. Making the property into a desirable oasis has been a labor of love.
The Letson's created berms with various plants including cactus, nadinas, azaleas, hawthorn and pampas grass. Dogwoods and other trees frame the property and create shady areas. Whimsical touches abound with two condo-type birdhouses and a handmade "monument" for the golfers.
Creativity shows in the Letson's gardens. Gary Letson even displays a growing collection of rocks, including several pieces of slag that came from his grandmother's farm in upstate New York. The slag was mined from the same iron mine where material used to build the iron clad warship, Monitor, which was used during the Civil War.
Congratulations to the Letsons for creating an outstanding garden. In appreciation and recognition of their gardening efforts, they were presented with a certificate of appreciation from the Garland County Master Gardeners. The Yard of the Month sign is posted on the golf course side of their garden for the month of September. In addition, they receive a one-year membership to Garvan Woodland Gardens.
The Hot Springs Village Yard of the Month is judged by a volunteer group of Garland County Master Gardeners. Nominations are being accepted for the October Yard of the Month, the last month this year for residential or business yards. To nominate, email Dianne Hardin, [email protected], or call Val Nuckels, 922-2238, by Oct. 5.
Society on 09/21/2014