Garden Rhapsodies
The Garden Rhapsodies Tour is an annual event organized and sponsored by the Thurston County Public Health Department to showcase Common Sense Gardening, or Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. This project is a collaborative effort between the Master Gardener Foundation of Thurston County, Olympia Symphony Guild, the Native Plant Salvage Project and the City of Olympia. Each partner contributes funding and/or volunteer hours to support the event.
The tour features approximately six local gardens that practice Integrated Pest Management. The attractive landscapes prove that it is possible to have a beautiful garden without using toxic pesticides. The tour also gives an opportunity for residents who already use IPM to strengthen their commitment, share information and network with each other. The gardens feature demonstrations of common sense gardening techniques such as composting and flame weeding, along with live music and artists. Master Gardener volunteers are available in each garden to answer questions. Take home information is provided through the Common Sense Gardening guides as well as other educational resources.
Tickets for the event are $15 and profits benefit the sponsoring non-profit organizations. A shuttle is available for people who attend the tour.
Below are images taken at the 2007 tour.
