The Porter's Pond

This past weekend Mr. Fix-it and I had the opportunity to preview all of the ponds on the 2012 Montgomery County Water Garden Society Pond Tour. What a treat! I really think that if you are asked to be on this tour you should jump on it as the pre-tour that all of the pond owners are treated to as a thank you for allowing their ponds to be on display is worth all the work!

I took pictures of six gardens ponds (not mine and not my friend Naomi's but I'll get hers later--if you'd like to see her garden look at this post found here). There are actually seven ponds on the tour but Mr. Fix-it and I toured an additional pond after the pre-tour.

We start at the Porter's pond simply because it is listed as the first pond on the ticket. I will post one post per pond over the next week or so.

As you drive up to the Porter's circular driveway you are greeted by this splendid concrete water fountain; flanked on either side by huge clumps of Musa bajoo, aka Hardy Japanese bananas.The fountain is sited perfectly and makes a great focal point out front.

The large pond you are seeking is around to the left of the house where you'll walk under a wonderful covered patio. And look who else found the pond? This super alligator looked very real. The fish obviously know it is not because they were not one bit afraid of it. My fish would never have been seen if I put something like this in my pond. I learned this the hard way when I put a duck in my pond that scared the fish so bad they stayed on the bottom of the pond. At any rate I loved this alligator so I might try it with my fish. It looks very realistic doesn't it? It gives the pond a touch of whimsy that makes one go hmmmm.....

This waterfall is one I wish mine was more similar to. I like how it has two steps before it falls into the water. The plantings around the waterfall were stunning and totally hid all of the mechanics of the pond.

And here are some of the lucky people who got treated to the pond pre-tour! They are admiring the deep and beautiful pond where happy koi reside.

The lotus in this pond were quite fascinating. My friend Naomi went along too since her pond is also on the tour. She loves the lotuses and is looking to add some to her pond so she really enjoyed seeing them here. You'll see her and Mr. Fix-it in a later post.

On the way out we noticed some cages on the back side of the house. Look at how cool this dovecote is set up. The doves looked quite happy and beautiful. They added to the ambiance at this home that had many wonderful potted plants, gardens, and the lovely pond.


Finally, I believe the area within the rocks used to house a smaller pond. Apparently the homeowners upgraded and made a large pond closer to their home. Pond siting is a major consideration when building a pond. Be sure to place it where you'll enjoy it most, though I am sure these homeowners enjoyed this pond very much and just wanted a larger one. 

Next up is the Russell Pond....

in the garden....

If you wish to buy tickets for this Saturday's pond tour (9-4), you can do so at Dave's Small Engine and Repair on the bypass, or at Orgain Building and supply. You can also contact the MCWGS via their webpage. On tour day you can buy tickets at the MCWGS tent set up in front of Dave's Small Engines. 

 Words and Photos Property of In the Garden Blog Team, In the Garden