Like the colors of a rainbow, the gardens’ inhabitants burst forth in color….
Summer has arrived, and one cannot help but notice the beauty that surrounds us in Morrison, IL. Gardens are starting to burst into vibrant colors. One such example causes passerby to do a double-take when viewing the grounds at the home of Ray Gomes and Chuck Galsusha. You cannot miss the charm and elegance of the well-kept landscaping surrounding their home, located at 603 N. Orange Street.
Morrison Garden Club has chosen their garden and yard as June’s Featured Garden.
Ray and Chuck first took an interest in gardening when they moved into their home in 2002. Many changes in their yard have transpired over recent years, with the loss of two trees.
Transitioning their gardens from being shaded (due to the trees) to now being mostly full-sun (without trees coverage), Ray and Chuck have played along with what Mother Nature has dealt them. They redesigned their gardens accordingly. They replaced the two trees with Japanese Birches in their front yard.
The south side of their house features a prominent water feature along the sidewalk, which is one of three. It is a pond with a Weeping Mulberry planted near it, along with some Hostas and Day Lilies. This pond was added in 2008 and is currently home to several large Goldfish and Shubunkins.
Along the west side of the house, visiting Garden Club members saw several beautifully designed planters with annuals and attractive garden decor. Also, on the west side, we could not help but notice the large, beautifully-sculpted, Bonsai type trees.
Looking near the house, you will see a beautiful angel, which is the second water feature. On the deck, our eyes were drawn to another delightful planter of annuals and a stunning display of succulents. Just beyond those, we discovered a couple of shepherd hooks with colorful, floral, hanging baskets. Walking to the front of the house, we saw the third water feature. A cascading flow of falling water randomly traverses a brick pattern, that creates a mesmerizing and relaxing sound. This is another area to quietly enjoy. This space includes a multitude of perennials: Asiatic lilies, tall phlox, roses, irises, and a striking purple Clematis.
We then meandered closer to the south side of the house which hosts a multitude of Hostas and various species of Coral Bells.
Throughout the gardens you will also see various pieces of lawn décor, including colorful walkway lanterns. Ray and Chuck share the duties of all aspects of their gardens, including picking out and arranging the plants, planting, and maintenance.
This yard is stunning! Please take a drive by to enjoy this wonderful display of color and design. Ray and Chuck also invite anyone interested in a closer look at their gardens to stop and walk through.
Morrison Club is proudly celebrating 75 years. We would like to extend an invitation to anyone who is interested in gardening to join our group, and to share in social and learning times. The club normally meets at Odell Public Library, 307 S. Market Street, on the first Thursday of every month at 2 p.m., (unless an activity is planned.)
Our Facebook page (Morrison Garden Club) is updated to reflect any changes to our schedule.
The Morrison Garden Club is looking for Featured Garden nominations for this summer. If you wish to be nominated or know of someone whose garden should be, send us a message on Facebook. We will take photos and create a small write-up, etc.
Big or small, flower or vegetable, gardens can be nominated for this honor. We would love to see your hard work! Certain gardens shine at various times of the summer and fall. We will take suggestions for July-September.