2010-13 – THE BEAR CREEK GARDEN

Woodland from above Bellflower in bloom around pond

Norbert Artzt and John Denton’s Bear Creek Garden is a 1/3 acre, plant sanctuary that surrounds a modest 1946 red brick cottage.  Begun in 1996, it contains a rich collection of both sun- and shade-loving native plants as well as conifers, woody evergreens, flowering shrubs, perennials and vines, camellias, ferns, and lilies.  Over 300 different species fill the densely textured, mixed beds.  Both formally shaped and naturalized elements combine to produce stasis and movement and a good measure of beauty in all seasons.  Norbert notes, “The overall design, though essentially simple, draws the garden visitor along widening and narrowing pathways from one area to another.  Dominating the woodland landscape is a magnificent, centuries-old white oak tree, one of the finest in the city.”  Note: There is no parking on Bear Creek, please park at St. George’s Episcopal Church and walk to this garden. The sidewalk is on the other side of the street; please be careful when crossing the street.

front with clematis Hardy begonias around white oak tree