Tomorrow is the annual New River Valley Garden Tour in Blacksburg, sponsored by the Friends of the Montgomery County Library.  I highly recommend this year’s tour, with seven gardens of a wide variety of designs and aesthetics.  This year, all of the gardens are fairly close to each other.  Plus, there are several local restaurants offering discounts to tour attendees, so you can go make a day of it, viewing gardens and enjoying a nice lunch.

One of the gardens, the Fleming garden, is owned by the owner of Zeppoli’s , one of my favorite restaurants in Blacksburg.  You can see the By the Yard garden at her home where some of the veggies for the restaurant are grown, then enjoy lunch at the restaurant at a discount.  That is nearly a perfect day for me!

You are certain to get inspiration for your own garden, while on the tour.  You’ll also be able to get questions answered, as Master Gardeners will be on hand at every garden.  The homeowners will also be in attendance so it’s a good chance to learn more about their personal choices.

I chatted with several of the garden owners, and most have a very relaxed view of gardening, which is one I can relate to.  Most gardeners I know care far more about personally enjoying the process and result than whether or not the garden is perfect.  And most gardeners who tour will not care if there’s a weed here or there.

Just in case you need further persuasion, the tour benefits a very good cause.  The funds raised benefit special adult and children’s programs at the library, as well as the summer reading program.

Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 the day of the tour.  You can purchase tickets at the public libraries or at any of the gardens on the day of the tour.  The tour is self-guided at can be started from any garden.  It runs rain or shine.

Visit the Garden Tour’s website for a map of gardens, photos or more information.  And enjoy your weekend, either at the Garden Tour or in your own garden!