ANNUAL GARDEN TOUR
APRIL 20, 2024
10 am to 4 pm
Join us this year for The Piedmont Gardeners annual garden tour and take the opportunity to visit six inspirational gardens in the Watkinsville/Athens, Georgia area. Bring a friend, grab your walking shoes, and immerse yourself in the self-guided tour filled with garden creativity and ideas.
We will be following the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State Health Department and local guidelines to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Tour Gardens
Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation
+ Yukiko Memorial Garden
34 School Street, Watkinsville
To the side of the OCAF building lies a charming and peaceful sculpture garden, including work by Harold Rittenberry. Tucked away behind OCAF is a beautifully groomed garden containing colorful shrubs created in memory of local potter Yukiko Marable.
Alice Woodruff
35 Main Street, Watkinsville
This intriguing garden opens up gradually into a sunny, grassy area leading down towards the creek. Along the way there is a pond to discover, an original fireplace and a raised bed full of pollinator-friendly flowers. The touch of local artist and potter, Alice Woodruff, is to be found all around this charming garden. *Parking will be available at 60 South Main Street, opposite the Woodruff garden.
Susan + Brian Brodrick
117 South Main Street, Watkinsville
At the apex of this large garden is a collection of young trees which Brian planted years ago. They are growing into a fine arboretum. To the side of the big house, which is steeped in family history, sits a small quaint building, known as Fanny’s House. The Brodricks are creating some garden rooms and there is an elegant terrace garden. *Entrance to the Brodrick garden is on New High Shoals Rd
Bob Tucker and Bill Gabelhausen
1511 Hillcrest Dr. Watkinsville
An expansive garden divided into distinct rooms, each with its own character. Bob has built generous paths leading to a wide range of carefully chosen plants – which are also carefully labeled. There are many eye-catching ornaments, including large-scale glass and metal art installations along the way.
George and Mary Swift
1010 Grey Drive, Watkinsville
Set on the sloping shores of a picturesque lake, this large garden is a photographer’s ideal – every shot is its own beautiful composition. There are both sunny and shady gardens to enjoy. George has carefully chosen and nurtured his plants to create a soothing and inspiring space.
Michael and Bonnie Dirr
1849 Heather Lane, Bogart
The garden of retired UGA Professor of Horticulture and plant innovator Michael Dirr is stuffed full of wonder. Spread out over 2 large lots is a range of rare and unusual trees and shrubs. Perennials are also in evidence – Dr Dirr is not only interested in “woodies” such as the marvelous hydrangeas and viburnums for which he is so well-known. Dr. Dirr has provided a tree list and baptisia info sheet for his visitors, download here.
Garden Location Map
Children are welcome…
Children under 18 are admitted free of charge
