Nutley -- Hardie Garden

The Hardie Garden features dense plantings of vividly colored tropicals and outsize grasses, most planted in containers to extend their outdoor growing season.The surrounding high wall was painted cobalt blue to bring the sky into the garden and to set up a contrast with the oranges, yellows and greens of the plants. The approximately 40-foot square plot slopes down seven feet from the back door to the colonnaded garage added in 1992, which led to the design and installation of this garden. Steps lead from the deck directly behind the house to another level with a dining table and chairs, with more steps leading to a hot tub concealed under a deck and garage where brick stands between the columns hold more planted containers. Sculptures on plinths and a decorative metal screen by artist Douglas Wilson are sited among the plants. The exuberant back garden, which recalls the owner's South African roots, contrasts with the more sedate front garden where white caladiums, elephant's ears and ornamental grasses are planted in neat beds, referencing English Victorian carpet bedding.

The Hardie Garden has been featured in The Garden Conservancy's Open Days.

Persons associated with the garden include: Richard Hartlage (garden designer, 1992- ).