OPEN GARDEN TOUR ETIQUETTE

Garden tour etiquette is especially important considering that your hosts are letting you into their private space out of the sheer goodness of their hearts.

VISITORS

Don’t wear high heels or bring a stroller. They’re murder on lawns. Don’t bring your dog. While this seems obvious, it does happen and, not surprisingly, can be disruptive. Don’t bring young children you can’t stay firmly attached to. Don’t ask to use washrooms unless it’s a true emergency. It’s not fair to ask hosts to let strangers unattended into their homes or to abandon visitors in their garden.

Don’t criticize the garden. Be kind. You are a guest and this isn’t costing you anything. Don’t ask to use the telephone, unless it is to dial 911. Don’t show up right before closing time. Stores make money usually when late customers slip in. Garden hosts, on the other hand, will be looking forward to closing the gate and putting their feet up. Do take notes. Ask the host before you take photographs. Do wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Do ask questions. Do say thank you and something nice about the garden as you leave.

HOSTS

Do consider a guest book. Signatures and comments make a great souvenir. Do take photographs.

Do answer questions and chat with guests. If the garden is unattended, a sign saying “Welcome” or “Please come in” puts visitors at ease. Do lock the front door. Do consider putting out a jug of ice water and some glasses on a hot day. Do keep the dog indoors. Do relax and enjoy. Your visitors are in awe that you even did this. Don’t feel obligated to allow use of washrooms or telephone. Don’t fret about plants past their bloom or damaged by pests. It happens to all of us. Don’t leave small tools or other valuables in the garden. Don’t miss the chance to see some Open Gardens yourself.