Alberta gardener transforms cutting garden
A gardener in Alberta, Canada, has spent seven years converting a raised-bed cutting garden into a mass planting featuring over 600 hydrangea blooms at
A garden in Raymond, Alberta, shows the dramatic results of a seven-year transformation. According to a submission to Fine Gardening's Garden Photo of the Day, Marni has turned a former seasonal cutting garden into a dedicated hydrangea space featuring more than 600 blooms at its peak.
The project began with a series of raised beds. Over time, the gardener converted the area into a mass planting focused on several hydrangea varieties. The garden now features 'Annabelle' smooth hydrangea, Incrediball smooth hydrangea, and several panicle hydrangea cultivars.
Garden design and features
The planting design creates a striking visual impact. One notable feature is an aisle lined with 'Annabelle' hydrangeas. The gardener told Fine Gardening, "We have a lovely hydrangea garden with more than 600 blooms at its peak." Beyond the flowers, the space is finished with collected and repurposed items including Victorian tiles, carved doors, lattice details, and vintage red brick.
A key structural change was the conversion of an old lean-to greenhouse into a dedicated garden room. This space is now used for preparing flowers, enjoying iced tea, or simply sitting out of the sun. An upcycled screen was transformed into a lace-covered swinging door, adding to the garden's character.
Practical cultivation techniques
Growing the hydrangeas in full sun required specific measures to ensure plant health. The gardener installed irrigation to every shrub and uses deep black mulch to retain moisture. A unique adaptation involves PVC sleeves placed throughout the beds. These allow for large beach umbrellas to be erected quickly, providing protection for the blooms from sun scorch, wind, or heavy rain.
The vintage red brick was used to create a patio area, which along with a thick lawn, now serves as a functional space for gatherings. The gardener reported using the space for a small ceremony and a baby shower this year.
Plant varieties used
The garden's composition relies on hardy hydrangea selections suitable for the local climate. The primary varieties planted are as follows:
| Hydrangea Variety | Botanical Name | Hardiness Zones |
|---|---|---|
| 'Annabelle' smooth hydrangea | Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' | 3-9 |
| Incrediball smooth hydrangea | H. Arborescens 'Abetwo' | 3-8 |
| Panicle hydrangeas | H. Paniculata and cultivars | 3-8 |
The transformation from a basic cutting garden to a personalized hydrangea shows took seven years of work. The gardener emphasized the satisfaction derived from both the creative process and the finished space, which blends abundant flowering plants with unique architectural details.
