Balboa golf home chosen as April Yard of the Month

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE – When Tom and Rita Harris moved into their home at 30 Cresta Way, Hot Springs Village, in November 2010, the yard was all gray rock which was a real dilemma for a gardener. However, since then, it has grown into a yard that made a golfer stop to ask if he could nominate it for HSV Yard of the Month. The yard now has lush grass and beautiful plants. All their hard work has paid off as the Harris’ yard was chosen as the Hot Springs Village Yard of the Month for April. It’s located on the fifth hole of Balboa Golf Course.

Rita Harris has planted a peach tree in honor of her father who loved peaches. The tree is covered with many small peaches that would make her father proud. A cherub brought with them from Texas holds a huge fern and a lemon tree in a pot are some of the highlights in the front yard that was previously all rock.

She has mixed annuals with peren- nials and shrubs and has added pots and statues. There is a little sitting area off to one side where you can sit and admire the view. There are sprinkling cans scattered about the landscaping. At first look, one believes they are accent pieces, but on a closer look the cans have water in them that is used to refresh a drooping plant.

The Harris’ feel lucky that last year’s tornado missed their home when it took out several trees in the lot next door. The back yard that caught the golfer’s eye is landscaped with ornamental trees, hanging baskets, various plants and sitting areas where they can enjoy watching the bluebird parents and babies each season. There is a whimsical water feature that includes an old- fashion water pump which makes a gurgling sound. They are looking forward to fresh blackberries from the vine which is in full bloom, but the bluebirds may get there first.

For their efforts, a sign is posted in the back yard proclaiming them “Yard of the Month.” In addition, the couple received a year’s membership to Garvan Woodland Gardens and a certificate from the Garland County Master Gardeners. The Hot Springs Village Yard of the Month is sponsored by the Garland County Beautification Commission. If interested in nominating a yard for the Yard of the Month, contact Val Nuckels, 922- 2238, or Dianne Hardin, dhardin12@ yahoo. com or 915- 8281.