travelstyle
Hidden Paradise By Ellen Ashton-Haiste
There’s a Secret Garden in Delaware. But the secret’s out.
Tranquil destination – The sound of water has been proven to be therapeutic. It’s very peaceful.
24 Lifestyle May/June 2014
During the growing season, thousands of visitors flock to John C. Young Design in this southwestern Ontario community to wander through the garden paradise John and Roberta Young and family have created on their 23acre farm. “Once you come, you’ll come back,” John promises. “People tell us it’s the most beautiful place they’ve ever seen.” “We have tour buses that come and they leave loaded up with plants,” says Roberta, partner with John in the business. The Secret Garden was so-named by clients because it’s nestled in the centre of the property, not visible from adjacent roadways. It covers two to three acres, with winding pathways meandering among colourful flowerbeds, potted perennials, stands of ornamental grasses, water gardens and ponds, shrubbery and evergreens. There are several water features – waterfalls, fountains, bubbling rocks – and even a stream flowing through that John created. “People can’t believe it’s manmade,” Roberta says.