This North Vancouver garden nestled amongst the trees was already well established when we began our work. The Cotinus, or Smokebush, is epic while in bloom. We added perennial shade garden areas, corten beds for vegetables, a berm, a rock wall, and a flagstone pathway. This sanctuary gets plenty of light in various areas and the garden produces enough food to last the entire summer, with plenty to share with friends and family. A large greenhouse on the property is used to grow peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and melons. Other crops, such as strawberries, zucchini, winter squash, beans, greens, and onions, are grown in the outdoor beds. Perennials like Galium odoratum, Vaccinium ovatum, and Polystichum munitum provide a native plant matrix, while additions of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’, Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ and Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’ are integrated to blend the new elements with the vibe of the established garden.

Photo credits: Jennilee Marigomen