The charming Addison County was a stunning spectacle last summer as highlighted by the intricate blend of deep hues and fascinating shades exhibited in the gardens cultivated by its residents.
Every year, the Middlebury Garden Club rewards both public and private gardens throughout Addison County with its momentous Roadside Attractions awards–a recognition program for attractive gardens developed innovatively in residential and commercial areas and are visible to passersby. The winners for the year 2024 are standouts in their unique charm and appeal: Lorraine and Fran Paquette in West Cornwall, Abi Sessions in Weybridge, Brad Koehler of Windfall Orchard in Cornwall, and the Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op.
The Paquettes’ garden in West Cornwall is an impressive sight of greenery and delight. Since 1983, Lorraine and Fran have made their home on a serene dirt road in West Cornwall, where both their family and a diverse farm of goodies flourished. Their initial venture into gardening started with integrating flowers into their vegetable garden. Later on, they decided to have a separate plot solely for flowers—Lorraine even doubled its size after leaving her job due to health constraints. The hard work was all worth it, as she remarks, when seeing the vibrant blooms, providing a sense of fulfillment and cheer. A mix of vegetables and a diverse collection of flowers grow throughout the seasons, including asparagus, lettuce, spinach, onions, pumpkins, hostas, dahlias, lupines, lavender, and zinnias, which the Paquettes grow from seeds preserved from the previous summer’s crop.
Abi Sessions’ garden, on the other hand, dons color all year round, covering the transition from crocus in March to red-stemmed dogwood throughout the winter. Elements such as a fringe bush, a dwarf gingko tree, elderberries providing both bird food and privacy, and several perennials provide a fascinating mix. Abi’s love for native plants is evident in her garden, which creates an enchanting display at the peak of summer. She believes in nurturing her garden for the silent joy it brings to pedestrians.
Brad Koehler, orchardist and farmer of Windfall Orchard on Route 30, has invested 22 years in nurturing his flower and vegetable gardens and taking care of his apple orchard. He has a keen interest in plant biodiversity and natural pollinators, which is why he remarks that “flowers are my obsession.”
During spring, the garden exhibits a marvelous display of tulips, daffodils, glory-of-the-snow, and alliums. Koehler also provides a unique taste of locally grown produce at his farmstand, which includes two dozen apple varieties and fresh, sweet cider.
Moreover, the charming landscape work of Sebastian Miska and Kate Corrigan from North Branch Farm and Gardens can be observed at the Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op. Their lush garden filled with a variety of intriguing plants and flowers are a welcome sight for visitors in the heart of Middlebury.
Last but not least is the Middlebury Garden Club – founded in 1933 and one of Vermont’s oldest. Its mission is to encourage an interest in gardening as well as undertake projects that will make areas more attractive. Its members maintain the gardens at the Sheldon Museum and fill the calendar with exciting garden-themed events, tours, and activities.
These wonderful creations and the love and labor behind them have made Addison County an even more breathtaking place. Just as each garden has its own story, so does the county–a tale of beauty, creativity, and a shared love for nature. The homeowners and gardeners who ensure the annual cycle of vibrant colors and voluptuous growth are the unsung heroes of the story. Their commitment to nurturing life–from seed to full bloom–is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, from one green thumb to another.
