An antique wheelbarrow near a country driveway welcomed Williamstown gardeners to the property of Master Gardener, Anne Marie Collard. Visitors walked down a long country lane edged with pines, lilacs and shrubs leading to charming gardens surrounding a 1700's Glengarry log house. Recently purchased a few years ago, the Collards have spent much time lovingly restoring both the grounds and the house.
The gardens have a lighthearted feel. An assortment of irises in varying colors was on show for the occasion. Antique roses, peonies, bee balm, columbine and Himalayan impatiens were added to the mix.
She also had a portion of land devoted to a freedom garden. In this space, plants are let grow without restrictions.
Similar to the song, "Whatever will be, will be".
Anne Marie's true passion is vegetables. Companion planting is observed. Sweet corn is grown near beans. Beans help corn by restoring to the soil the nitrogen used by the corn.
To keep weeds at bay, thick plastic is placed on the ground near where the squash is planted. Along with the typical vegetables you would expect grown, more unusual plants are also harvested. Burdock is grown for its medicinal properties. Interestingly, burdock has been used for centuries, to treat a variety of ailments.
It has been traditionally used as a 'blood purifier' to clear the bloodstream of toxins, as a diuretic and as a topical remedy for skin problems such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. Although typically seen as a weed in our country, in Japan the cooked roots are greatly relished for their refreshing, pungent flavour.
Anne Marie's garden is a country retreat, serving her needs in the kitchen, as well as her spirit.
