Rocky has lived at the address for 21 years. His hard work and eye for plants and garden articles is apparent as you approach his home from East or West. Rocky stated that he was raised on a farm and began planting and working the dirt as a young person. He stated that his mother, Maudie Meads, was a big influence in his love of gardening as she was an avid gardener. He told us that he has landscaped every home he has lived in, including homes in Texas and California, taking many Missouri plants to those homes. He recently retired and now has more time to dedicate to his passion.
As you arrive at the Meads’ residence, you notice the striking beds with Asiatic Lilies with three beautiful flags blowing in the breeze. The flags are a recent addition. There are orange, yellow, white and burgundy lilies in a well kept bed, mulched and edged with sandstone rocks. Included are banana plants in the middle of the bed and ground covers growing randomly throughout. Rocky plans to plant cypress in this bed in the future.
Walking up the sidewalk, you are welcomed by a friendly porch flanked with 2 white rockers and hanging ferns. At the bottom of the steps, there are planters with Robellini Palms on either side. The trees in front yard are surrounded by hosta. In the front corner is Hemerocallis fulva (aka ditch lily) that will soon be blooming in orange.
The landscape around the house is filled with a variety of grasses including pampas and variegated bamboo. Rocky plans to change out the grasses and put something new in its place. He will be adding window boxes to the front of the house.
Along the back side yard is another lovely bed with a variety of hosta. Especially interesting was the spear point hosta. In the middle of this bed is a fountain, and in addition there are several sculptural pieces throughout. The ground covers are wandering in a natural way. Elephant Ears are beginning to make an appearance in this bed. Everywhere we looked we saw something interesting. Rocky has turned an ordinary yard into a calm, serene sanctuary. Congratulations, Rocky!
Submitted by the Yard of the Month Committee, Twilight Garden Club
