In 2023, we started a project with a client who had visited our gardens and simply said, “I want it like this,” when we asked about his plans for his landscape design. His historic home, dating back to the 1860s, came with a large piece of property that he wanted to fill with interesting plants and a pond. You can read more about the first phase of this showcase garden here.
The next phase of the project began last fall, when we visited one of our favorite places to find unique specimens—Danaher Nursery, located just north of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Danaher grows wild and wonderful things, and he doesn’t plan to do it for much longer. Over the years, we’ve visited to pick up plants he’s ready to part with.
Mr. Danaher has been grafting conifers and other plants since he was 13—10,000 grafts in a winter, which is nothing unusual for him. He’s part of a storied group of plant nerds and is generous with his vast knowledge. His extensive private collection is a treasure trove of rare varieties. Now that he’s scaling back, he’s letting some go—but it’s not a free-for-all. Adopting one of his plants is more like an interview process. He asks a lot of questions to ensure each plant ends up in a good home where it will be properly cared for.
Unique plants are our client’s jam, too. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, he has a particular love for conifers. He joined us for a return visit in February, where we picked up what we had earmarked in the fall—and of course, left with even more. A third trip was deemed necessary (by Bill).
While there are now many wonderful specimens in our client’s garden, here are three we’re especially excited about:
Dwarf Japanese Stone Pine – Pinus pumila
“Dwarf” is a relative term in the conifer world. This one is a giant mound of gorgeousness. Our client thinks it might be his favorite element in the garden.
Bernie Virginia Pine – Pinus virginiana
This fabulous conifer was perfect for where we used it. With an upright stature and willingness to stay small, it provided some nice screening.
Showcase Garden: A Lovely Grouping Of Dwarf Conifers – many Pinus
Just one example of the many conifer highlights in the showcase garden.
One aspect of adopting these precious plants is that they’re truly one of a kind. Someday, our client may be willing to share a graft or two—maybe even with us. In the meantime, we expect this showcase garden will be featured on some tours in the next few years. We’ll keep you posted.
If you’re interested in creating your own unique landscape design, reach out! Send us an email or give us a call at 317-997-4803.
