Kate and Harry Dobbins' Garden
Oakland
Gardening experience: Native garden was installed in the fall of 2005
Garden size: Lot size: 5910 square feet
Showcase feature: Kate attended the 2005 Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour and fell in love with a garden designed by Greg Wolford of Californica Landscaping. Promptly after the Tour, she and her brother Harry hired Greg to transform the landscaping around their recently-inherited duplexes. The siblings had grown up on this property, which had been in the family—nearly unchanged—for more than 60 years. Now, a year-and-a-half later, the front garden is a pleasing array of colorful, sun-loving, drought-tolerant coastal plants. The L-shaped back yard and courtyard between the duplexes is a charming and peaceful shared garden space. Shade-loving plants tucked into the curved raised beds under the decks give a woodland feel. The sound of falling water attracts birds and soothes tenants and visitors. Come prepared to stay awhile; you'll want to linger in this small, aesthetically-pleasing garden.
Other garden attractions:
- The garden features unusual uses of recycled material: an original bathroom sink (from 1926) is now a burbling fountain and bird bath; a set of glass doors rescued from the dump add a vibrant dash of color and whimsy; interesting twisted juniper remnants are placed about the garden.
- The open design of the entryway provides privacy, while keeping an airy feel. The entryway and decks were designed and constructed by Brian Longley Construction.
Gardening for wildlife: Kate and Harry wanted a living garden, one that would attract birds and butterflies. A variety of berries—twin, coffee, elder, snow, and goose—and colorful flowering plants—have succeeded in attracting winged visitors of all kinds.
