MONROE — The home of Terry Goetz at 1919 8th St., which will be part of the “Take a Garden Walk” event this month, demonstrates 360-degree landscaping. 

Goetz spent 20 years of gardening at an altitude of 7,000 feet while dealing with deer, elk, decomposed granite soil, freeze/thaw winters, strict water restrictions, 20-40 percent humidity and more. He thought he needed professional help designing his gardens in this “new land” when he bought his house in 2011. While the lines and flow of the gardens are still the way he and the designers created them over a two-year period, the plant selections have changed dramatically. He has a somewhat ruthless attitude about what remains in his spaces, and he feels he is “too old to live with ugly plants.” Whenever possible, plants are given away to new homes. 

Right from the start, the decision was made to cover every available inch of lot space with gardens and seating spaces. It’s a decision that has provided constant rewards in so many forms, not the least being conversations with passers-by.

Gardening here is a contrast to his days in Colorado where every leaf had to be guarded carefully. Goetz has learned to love the heat and humidity just for the joy of gardening.

Hydrangeas have become his favorite flower due to their many forms and colors, the longevity of the blooms, their winter structure and ease of care. With each organization Goetz assists with gardening, he actively promotes the placement of this plant.

The “Take a Garden Walk” event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 23 and will take walkers through six different gardens. A donation is required for participating adults; children 12 and under are free. All money will go to Monroe Clinic Hospice Home to be designated for landscaping projects.