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May 09.2025
2 Minutes Read

Discover the Inspiring Village Garden Club Tour Featuring RSF Estates

Village Garden Club tour featuring a lush, maintained garden.

A Celebration of Nature: The Village Garden Club Tour

The Village Garden Club of La Jolla recently marked a milestone, celebrating its 50th anniversary while inviting members to explore the beauty of local gardens. On May 1, members embarked on a tour featuring the stunning Hoehn estate in Rancho Santa Fe (RSF), alongside the homes of Sheryl Durkin and Maureen McMahon. These gardens are not merely picturesque landscapes, but rather living examples of the creativity and dedication that gardening can inspire.

The Hoehn Estate: A Gem in Rancho Santa Fe

Susan Hoehn, the owner of the estate, showcased an array of flora in her garden, including cherished elements like the Camellia Garden and the whimsical Wishing Well. Many attendees left feeling inspired, absorbing gardening techniques that can turn even the smallest backyard into a blooming paradise. Gardens, much like the Hoehn estate, often serve as a testament to the bond between people and nature, inviting homeowners to harness creativity while cultivating their own outdoor sanctuaries.

Community Impact and Engagement

The Village Garden Club does not solely focus on its own members; rather, it embraces a broader role in community development. Club activities extend beyond monthly meetings featuring interesting speakers to include philanthropy and outreach. Their Commemorative Tree Project, for instance, leaves a tangible legacy as members plant trees throughout San Diego, contributing to the urban landscape while engaging in environmental stewardship.

Gardening as a Therapeutic Escape

Gardening has profound effects on mental health, offering tranquility and a connection to the earth. Members of the Village Garden Club often share personal stories of how gardening aids in reducing stress and enhancing well-being. By participating in club activities, individuals find not just a hobby but a restorative retreat where they can unwind amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Looking Towards the Future

The commitment of the Village Garden Club to educational workshops and community gardens demonstrates that their influence extends well beyond garden aesthetics. The next generations can look forward to a vibrant gardening culture enriched by volunteers teaching gardening techniques and sustainable practices. These initiatives pave the way for environmental consciousness in upcoming generations, introducing them to the joys and responsibilities that come with garden caretaking.

As the Village Garden Club continues to grow—now boasting around 340 members primarily from La Jolla and Rancho Santa Fe—the possibilities of embracing nature and sharing their passion for gardening remain boundless. This annual garden tour is a wonderful reminder of the beauty that surrounds us and the importance of cultivating our connections, both to nature and our communities.

As you consider diving into gardening or enhancing your existing spaces, think about joining local gardening clubs or participating in community initiatives. Your contribution could not only beautify your surroundings but also enrich your community and foster connections.

Local Insights

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02.24.2026

How Makeda Dread Cheatom Transformed San Diego's Reggae and Culture Landscape

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