Meet: Jeanne Villani, keen gardener and member of the Garden History Society

Jeanne's garden, Waterfall Cottage. Photo - Libby Cameron

Did you garden as a child?

My father was a nurseryman and florist in England and we were always roped in to help with the planting which gave me a good grounding of names and care of the things that he was growing.

Did you create your rainforest garden at Waterfall Cottage when you moved there?

Part of the enchantment of the property was that it was already a rainforest area. I have added a lot more rainforest trees as they are all so beautiful, particularly the new growth, and they also help protect the house from bushfires.

Any favourite plants?

Coming from England anything tropical fascinates me but my favourites change from time to time. At the moment I'm loving the many hydrid Brugmansias that I have in so many new colours and forms.

Any wise words for our readers?

I read on a card the other day "If you want to be happy for a short time, get drunk. If you want to be happy for a long time, fall in love. If you want to be happy forever, take up gardening" - so true - it has given me untold happiness.

Jeanne’s garden, Waterfall Cottage, at 90 Cabbage Tree Rd, Bayview will be open on April 24-25, 10am – 4.30pm, entry $7. www.opengarden.org.au

Text: Libby Cameron

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Comments

Linda Mosey commented on 18 Oct 15

Hi Jeanne, My sister and I have always loved coming to your beautiful Waterfall Cottage and we are wondering when you'll be having another Open Day?