On the Grounds of Springmoor

New visitors are always quick to compliment Springmoor on the neatly manicured grounds and colorful landscaping throughout the campus. Nestled in a neighborhood and built into the topography of the land, the grounds are extremely lush and verdant. Residents are invited to add to their homes with their favorite annuals and perennials. This week our Resident Gardeners share their stories about gardening at Springmoor.

What have you planted this year in the resident garden or outside of your home?

On the South Village side of the campus, we have twenty-three resident gardeners who each have a 10’ x 20’ plot to plant their favorite vegetables and flowers.
For those with floral gardens, we now have a colorful mix of zinnias. Resident Dave Waters started in the winter season with his Hellebores and has continued to have blooms throughout the seasons with Brugmansia, Hibiscus, Star Lilies and Salvia, to name just a few.
In his vegetable garden, resident Allen Page has planted tomatoes, cucumbers, basil, peppers and arugula. He says he is turning green from all of the arugula they have been eating!
And at her home outside of her ground floor patio, Audrey Austin has planted Begonias, Caladium and Shasta Daisies. At her neighbor’s request, she has extended her garden to include his back patio too. Goldie Coates has found her favorite spot for gardening on the balcony of her building. We all enjoy her caladiums with their big elephant shaped leaves with a colorful mix of pinks, reds and greens.

What has been successful and why?

Everyone was quick to say the rain has been the biggest reason for success this year. Thom Morgan, Springmoor’s Landscape Designer, says 1.7” fell in June and 3.9” in July. When it’s not raining, watering is the key.

Do you have a favorite gardening tip that you can pass along to incoming residents?

Audrey’s quote is the best: “LOCATION – plants are like real estate – location is everything! Sun exposure, moisture, mulch, fertilizer and preparation are keys to a successful garden.

Where do you shop for your gardening supplies?

Raleigh has an abundance of gardening supply stores. Logan’s One Stop Garden Shop, located in downtown Raleigh, and Homewood Nursery, a few miles from Springmoor in North Raleigh, are two of the favorites. Home Depot, less than two miles away, is a quick drive away for all of your tools as well as a variety of plants.

Did you have a problem with bunnies and deer this year?

We have noticed lots more fences around your gardens this year than last year. Lindsay Hornthal used deer and rabbit spray and stuck her  “pigs can fly” ornament in the middle of her cukes and she had great success!
Audrey’s flower garden is protected by red pepper. She says the deer have quickly decided they don’t like her garden. She also suggests using deer resistant plants like Coral Bells and Lenten Roses.

What’s your favorite summer vegetable?

Hand’s down it’s all about TOMATOES!

Do you have a particular outdoor spot at Springmoor that you like best?

Springmoor resident, Sally Neal, who is often seen walking around the campus, has a few favorite trees and shrubs. “The smoke bush in the front entry island is lovely. The Japanese maple on the driveway of South Village before the portico was stunning this past fall. And I love seeing the Asclepius tucked in here and there. It makes me happy that we plant with bees, birds and butterflies in mind.”
The new fountain area near the croquet court is one of everyone’s favorite spots too. Located by the South Village Dining Room, you can enjoy the swings, grills and bench seating all year ‘round.

What sources do you use for gardening tips (magazines, books, websites, etc.)?

Google, Southern Living and neighbors (a few are Master Gardeners) are all used as resources. Barbara Page says experience is the best teacher. They love to read garden books and magazines. Before they moved to Springmoor, they gave away three birdbaths and all of their books. “We were focusing on the interior and didn’t think we would be gardening. We have bought a new birdbath and are so glad we have the space to garden.”

“I love to garden in the garden and I love to garden in our yard. Both make me so happy!”  – Lindsay Hornthal
“Guess I’ll always be a trial and error gardener. After all, didn’t time start in a garden?” – Audrey Austin
“Every time I look out my living room window, I am grateful that Springmoor has lived up to its reputation of being “a little bit of heaven” in my garden.” – Betty Aydlett

If you would like to tour our beautiful grounds and find out more about the amenities at Springmoor, please call 919-848-7080 to schedule a visit.
And a final note: This writer is most appreciative of the Springmoor Gardeners and the donations that appear on her desk. There is nothing better than a homegrown tomato, fresh zucchini or a vase full of zinnias!