We garden an approximately 5 acre property, on what was historically part of a large dairy farm. The garden itself is maybe a third of that acreage, sharing space with the 1920’s farmhouse and outbuildings (both old and new), an orchard that we planted soon after moving in 21 years ago, and a pasture area with various hobby animals. The property was a wide open expanse of grass with very minimal garden amenities when we bought it. Over the years we have sought to make the space more cozy and personal by planting a protective hedgerow of native plants along the roadway and establishing more intimate garden areas surrounding the house. Favorite garden decor consists of lots of rusty metal and mossy concrete. Favorite plant categories include shade plants, peonies, clematis, viburnums and other flowering shrubs, and anything else that catches my eye. Favorite garden areas include the gravel courtyard and fenced kitchen garden. Favorite past-times include cider-making and BBQs in our outdoor pavilion.