Garden Club members at the home of Mildred and Gary Otwell
The Garden Club held a brief meeting at President Lori Slocum’s home on May 19. Lori was presented with a purple glass bird bath to thank her for serving as our president. Besty Duncan was unanimously voted in as president for the 2025-26 club year, starting in September. Our club does not meet in June, July, or August. We are all too busy in our gardens, traveling, and visiting with family and friends.
Then the group carpooled to the four featured homes. The first stop was Amy Griffin-Witt and Jackie Witt at 8912 Crestview. They have a fabulous front courtyard with maybe the largest planter at the Ranch. Their backyard is full of flowers everywhere on their spacious patio overlooking the golf course.
Next was Mildred and Gary Otwell at 8905 Landmark. Even their two dogs joined in the tour. They must spend most of their time in the yard. The geraniums are glorious, and blooming flowers were throughout. Mildred assures me they only fertilize twice a year and upon initial planting, using a fish emulsion. The beds are all full of plants and easily visible from La Jolla Way.
Clare and Bill Kretzmer, located at 8201 Cocobolo, have incorporated various colors in their front yard, including a window box. Additionally, the side yard features steps and climbing gold lantana. The backyard pool is surrounded by flowers and shrubs. Clare recently added drift roses and hardy hibiscus between the pool and golf course. This house was featured as Yard of the Month in May.
Our last stop was the home of Dianne and Tim Battle, 10521 Countryside Drive. The front courtyard includes a soothing water feature and a green Japanese maple that adds height to the space. Colorful coleuses live under the maple. Tim is the garden railroad enthusiast. The garden railroad with “G” track with passenger and log trains was renovated this year, including a vertical water feature, replacing the pond. The patio displayed potted pink mandevilla and ferns, which were lush and beautiful.
Robson Ranch is a beautiful place to live. Congratulations to homeowners, and thanks for sharing your homes. Your hard work and landscape planning are enjoyed by all. Drive by for a viewing or contact the owners if you crave a closer look.
Happy summer gardening, and remember to use your sunscreen and hydrate!