In the heart of Strathcona County, there lies a garden that bursts with color, creativity, and an undeniable touch of magic. Norma, who has resided in her home since 2004, has transformed her yard into a vibrant and whimsical retreat, drawing inspiration from the charming, unpredictable beauty of English gardens. Norma’s journey into gardening began when she moved into her home, and since then, she has nurtured her garden into a stunning display of flora and artistry, entirely self-taught and driven by her own creativity.

Norma’s garden is a testament to her love for nature and her innovative spirit. This year, her delphiniums have been her favorite bloom, standing tall and elegant amidst the diverse array of plants. Unlike many gardeners who follow a strict color scheme, Norma embraces the whimsical. She allows her garden to evolve naturally, letting colours mix.

Her yard features a variety of plants, carefully chosen to suit the different environments within her space. Whether basking in full sun or nestled in the shade, each plant finds its perfect spot, creating a harmonious blend of colors and textures. Norma’s garden is a dynamic masterpiece, with new plants and annuals introduced each year to complement her robust collection of perennials.

A unique aspect of Norma’s garden is the artistic touch she adds with her hand-painted wooden posts. Adorned with bubbles, sunflowers, mandala art, and intricate patterns, these posts are crafted with acrylic paint and showcase Norma’s self-taught artistic skills. Each post is a piece of art, reflecting her love for creativity and adding a personal touch to her garden.

Norma’s garden is also home to a variety of animal figures, birdhouses, and a charming water mill crafted by a friend. She enjoys finding unique decor items at thrift stores or on travels. One of the highlights of her yard is a butterfly bench, a beautiful and inviting spot that perfectly complements the garden’s whimsical style.

For Norma, gardening is not just a hobby; it’s a daily joy. Her advice to new gardeners is simple yet profound: “Just go with your heart” and “use your imagination.” She encourages gardeners to create their own unique spaces rather than trying to replicate someone else’s vision. If something doesn’t work, she suggests changing it or removing it the next year, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and creativity in gardening.

Norma’s garden is more than just a collection of plants; it’s a reflection of her warm and sweet personality. Her passion for gardening and her artistic flair have created a haven of beauty and inspiration in Strathcona County. This enchanting yard has been nominated by residents and is proudly featured by Strathcona in Bloom.