2018 MEMBERS’ GARDEN TOUR - Northwest Philadelphia

In Germantown we will see Nicole Juday Rhoads’ garden at the home high above Wissahickon Avenue that she lovingly and beautifully restored. Nicole loves roses and roses will be the star at this stop.

In East Falls we explore the garden of Suzanne Penn. The house, built in 1916 is the last residence built by the architect, William Price. Suzanne and her husband bought the house 28 years ago and over the years Suzanne has added hardscaping made to appear as if it was always there. The plantings consist of small trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals chosen to provide a constantly changing show throughout the year. The garden is in close proximity to the neighboring properties which presents the challenge of constant change so that this garden never looks the same from year to year.

 In Mt.  Airy the gardens of Tony Aiello and Syd Carpenter are on our list. Tony is the Gayle E. Maloney Director of Horticulture and Curator at Morris Arboretum and his garden is described by all who visit as “fantastic”. You may have seen the article in Grow featuring Syd’s garden. The hillside garden surrounds a late 19^th century Victorian twin and is designed to provide at least three seasons interest. The beds are planted with a wide variety of perennials. Surrounded by mature trees the garden survives in dappled light and shade. The focus is on colors, shapes, and textures with a succession of plants providing layers of color and movement. The shed is topped by a roof garden and sculptures in clay, copper, and iron are discreetly placed throughout.

The Aiello and Carpenter gardens are within easy walking distance of each other so there will be no need to park twice.

The reception will be at the garden of Najjia Mahmoud and Mark Sellers who live at Awbury Arboretum. They have created thoughtful and lovely areas throughout their property and have filled them with beautiful plants. As well as hosting the reception Najjia and Mark will also open their garden from 12-4.

There will be food and beverages at the reception and there will again be our popular raffle offering great items donated by our members. The raffle tickets are cash or check only and you must be present to win.

Since this is a members’ only event we will be prepared to sign up your guests. Dues are $35.00 for one year and $60.00 for two years. Membership includes two members of the same household. Payment by cash or check only, payable at the first garden you visit.  

Registration closes June 15 .  Questions email: [email protected]. 

After you register you will receive an email confirmation with a  map and directions to all the locations.

This tour is an opportunity to see some gardens not on the tour for some time and others that are new to the tour. Please don’t miss this. Register now.