Sat, August 8, 2026
What a treat! It’s rare to find a 2-acre garden in Mission Hills, and the owners of this beautiful property have been very generous in opening their garden to us. We had a sharing garden here in July 2013, when the garden was just 4 years old, and seeing it now you can understand how the original vision has matured and filled in. Landscape designer and contractor Randy Laurie, of Laurie's Landscaping (www.laurieslandscaping.com) is the thoughtful genius who 18 years ago began turning an uninspiring plot into a vibrant garden with a Mediterranean theme in keeping with our climate. He will be on hand during our visit with before photos showing the many challenges he faced. You’ll see dozens of species of succulents and cactus, flowering trees, and softly flowing groundcovers. The garden overlooks Old Town and has magnificent views.
Today, curved gravel pathways meander on ground level, and there is also a trail along the hillside slope that you’re welcome to explore. To create level ground about 300 dump trucks of dirt and sand were brought in, which helped tame the steep slope, filled an existing swale, and provided an excellent environment for the aloes, agaves, succulents, trees and other plants that were brought in. There is a dry riverbed for storm runoff and many vantage points from which to view the garden. In the last few years, the owners have really enjoyed getting more hands on with gardening, adding a few plants here and there, growing their vegetables, even raising bees! Randy and the homeowners continue to maintain and improve the garden. You won’t want to miss this outstanding stroll garden! Read about the 2013 SDHS visit here at https://sdhort.org/event-712153.
Photos courtesy of Randy Laurie.
Please Note:
By attending you agree to waive all claims against SDHS and any entities associated with visiting the garden.
No pets or strollers are allowed in the garden.
Please wear closed-toe shoes.
The SDHS feels that this garden is not handicapped accessible.
Carpooling encouraged. The house is at the bottom of a long, steep driveway; you may drive down, drop your passengers, and return to local streets to park
