Exposure to sun, wind, and summer heat has produced a unique micro-climate that allows 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.
Keeping the Gardens Safe to Visit
Susan and Bryce with their most recent catch of highly toxic death cap mushrooms. Susan makes her rounds of the gardens every Thursday. They are most prevalent in The Terraces and near the chauffeur’s cottage. They shouldn’t be touched, but can be disposed of in regular garbage if in plastic bags. The House has posted signs with pictures by the front entrance.
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 Is Now Retired
Arthur Timms is taking a well-deserved retirement after a 22-year career as a Friends volunteer. He served on the Friends board, was a tour guide for the gardens, and a 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 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 is 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.”