Richmond -- Garden of Peggy & Henry Valentine, The

The Garden of Peggy and Henry Valentine is located in the West End of Richmond, Virginia. Established in 1964, the two-third acre property epitomizes a town garden designed for year-round enjoyment. Having evolved substantially over more than sixty years, the owner has created specific garden "rooms" with plantings that are resistant to deer, voles, and rabbits. Plant selection reflects the seasonal changes with special attention given to texture and color.

Within the formal garden, a primarily pink-and- white palette creates a dramatic procession from "room" to "room", via charming transitions. The rose garden contains numerous varieties of old fashioned and David Austin varieties that are set off by an arched arbor and a tuteur. The arbor leads to a bordered lawn overlooking a brick terrace, and through an oak and Pieris japonica, it transitions to a bluestone terrace. Brick edging strengthens the garden's structure, and effective use of garden ornamentation enhances focal points throughout, drawing the eye to the center of each vista. Throughout the garden, there is an intentional use of layering: large canopy trees, including views of a neighbor's oak, and a grand magnolia in the front yard, are paired with understory trees like the Carolina silverbell, dogwood and cypress. Vines, such as climbing hydrangea, contrast the large azaleas and oak leaf hydrangeas, while small flowering shrubs and perennials complement the lawns and paved terraces. Borders are filled with seasonal annuals.

The property's Colonial Revival house was constructed in 1932.

Persons associated with the garden design include: Irene Grigg (gardener, 1970s-1980s), Karl Campe (horticulturist, 1964-1988), Gail Comer (gardener, 1990- ), Mark Cohee (rosarian, 1990-2020), Joel Koci (arborist, 1970- ).