Its exposure to sun, wind, and summer heat has produced a unique micro-climate that allows for many unusual plants to flourish in its elevated patios and rockeries. These provide a spectacular view toward the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.
Southern hemisphere plants such as callistemons, grevilleas, kniphophias, azaras, and agapanthus as well as rock outcroppings of euphorbias, cistus, hellebores, and succulents create a peaceful landscape reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
The more exotic yuccas, phormiums, and dracaenas area is a contrast to the native Garry Oak trees and the colourful variety of shrubs, perennials, and bulbs that bloom throughout the year.
It Must be Ten o’ Terracite Tea Time
The Terraces gardeners take a well-deserved break after a regular shift of weeding, raking, pruning, compost spreading, and, on some occasions, transplanting. Co-ordinator Arthur Timms (in blue jacket and cap), sharing tea, coffee, and home-made treats with his fellow gardeners. Not only is the view spectacular, but the camaraderie is first class.
Arthur Timms Has Retired
After a 22-year career as a Friends volunteer, Arthur Timms is embarking on a well-deserved retirement. Arthur has served on the Friends board and has most recently been the tour guide for the gardens and Terraces co-ordinator. He was involved with the extensive work needed to develop the Terraces and open the garden to the public during Iona Campagnola’s tenure as Lieutenant Governor.
Arthur receiving the Phoebe Noble award at the 2019 Christmas luncheon. He was given the silver trowel in 2015.
From left: Her Honour Judith Guichon (Lieutenant Governor 2012 – 2018), Nigel Godfrey, Patty Grant, Baz Bapty, Richard Marshall, Alison Leamy, Arthur Timms, and Brian Rogers enjoy a chilly Terracite tea break.
Arthur has conducted tours for visitors from all over the world and always knew, and shared, the official Latin name for every flower, plant, or shrub in the gardens.
He has contributed more than 7,500 volunteer hours to the Friends and as tour guide, has brought in thousands of dollars in revenue annually.
According to President and fellow Terracite Patty Grant, “Arthur will be a hard act to follow. While we will miss him terribly, we’ve extended an open invitation to join us for the Terraces 10 a.m. tea break. We will even provide him with an official Friends bucket on which to sit.”