There are some lovely new gardens to explore, ranging in size from large country properties to small town cottage gardens. In fact, there is something for everyone.

Two town gardens that should be of interest to the average homeowner belong to two next-door neighbours, Ros Brown and Bonnie and John Harvey, at 95 and 93 Queen Street respectively.

Bonnie and John have always had a most productive vegetable garden and certainly have some valuable tips to share. The green thumb also extends into the flower garden, which is always awash with colour from perennials, roses and flowering shrubs.

Bonnie said there is no plan to her garden, if she likes it she will plant it. The back yard garden is designed around a huge Acer negundo maple that was planted in the 1920s.

“It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, I always have some colour in the garden.”

Ros Brown has been gardening for years and is now working on a much smaller area than previously.

She is developing a charming cottage-style garden full of perennials and shrubs which provide a succession of blooms as the seasons progress. These two gardens are full of interesting plants and great ideas.

Do take time to visit.

The other four gardens are all conveniently situated in the same area – first Chatham Valley Road then the Gingkin area. For details of the gardens and a map, please contact the Visitors Information Centre in Queen Street. Tickets are $12 for entry to all gardens, with refreshments available at Magpie Hill, 277 Chatham Valley Road.