Hidden Lake Gardens 2012 - 250 Photos of My Time Working There

#hiddenlakegardens
I worked at HLG when my home nursery wasn't paying the bills. 6am-2pm. It was a wonderful experience. My job was to drive the golf cart through the entire place (750 acres) to check trash cans, it was a breathtakingly beautiful cruise every time. Then water all the plants in the conservatory, tropical dome and arid dome, then water the Bonsai. (The collection was curated by Jack Wikle, I visited him at his house/collection when I was 16yo and he gave me a tour. He was surprised that such a young person was interested in Bonsai. I bought some pots from him for the plants I had started at home). If I could've made a living doing that, I'd probably still be there...Took loads pictures, this is a video of those pictures
I went through the entire property 3 times a day so I got several scenes at different times of day/seasons. The 6:00 am trip was always beautiful, bordering on magical. Some days I would drive it backwards and see perspectives that would be different than the typical HLG visitor would see.
The conifer collection is world-renown with varieties that are very rare, some that only exist on this property. It's been described as one of the best collections in the world.
The Swan was known for being grouchy and aggressive, but we became good pals. Every time I would water the plants around the pergola she would come right up to me for a drink and a chat, really amazing to be so close to her.
My son Seth came to work with me a few times. I was so happy to show him the beautiful place that I helped take care of for that short time.
Some really amazing moments on this property that I hold very dear. It was a very challenging time in my life, but being surrounded by this beauty made it so much more enjoyable.