For several years as I passed the garden at 3725 Henry Hudson Parkway, I tried to learn who designed this small but delightful garden with no success. Recently, a friend was leaving the building and we stopped to chat. My question came up and she said, “I believe it was Judith Mills Johnson” a now-retired garden designer for many years in Riverdale , whose reputation still evokes an awed respect.
Although we could not establish exactly when the garden was planted, her pleasure was obvious upon learning that the garden had only increased in beauty over the years. Her comment was, “ One of the most important design criteria is creating a plan that will weather the years.” This means that as the shrubs and perennials grow to a mature height and width, all of the elements will continue to be visually balanced.
What a lovely article! I can’t wait to crest my first garden. I will definitely use the idea of “the bones”. That is fantastic. I also like the idea about different textures. I love moss, but hadn’t had that in mind for my garden until now. Thanks for the great tips!
I very much enjoyed your blog.
I am a professional artist and horticulturist with a garden design firm based in Spuyten Duyvil.
Rebecca Allan, Horticulturist
Painterly Gardens
painterlygardens.com