Justin Chumich and Brett Mensing have created a garden that may only be two years old, but its history dates back to Chumich’s childhood. Growing up across the street from the property that would eventually become their home in 2022, Chumich’s passion for gardening was sparked at a young age. He spent his childhood reading gardening magazines and helping his mother tend to her extensive gardens. This early exposure to gardening laid the foundation for the beautiful garden that now surrounds their home in Proctor.
The couple’s garden is a testament to their meticulous planning and attention to detail. Before their home was even built, Chumich and Mensing started laying out configurations for garden beds using rope. The abandoned house that previously occupied the property was torn down, giving them a blank canvas to work with. They experimented with different shapes and designs, ultimately settling on a mix of wave-shaped beds near the house and kidney bean shapes towards the edges of the property.
Their garden is carefully curated to ensure year-round beauty. Evergreen shrubs provide a foundation that keeps the garden looking vibrant in all seasons, while long grasses fill empty spaces later in the year. In their vegetable garden, Chumich and Mensing have packed a variety of plants close together to support each other’s growth and deter pests and weeds. Their approach to gardening is thoughtful and strategic, resulting in a lush and thriving garden.
In addition to their vegetable garden, Chumich plans to create a cutting garden for flowers that can be used in floral arrangements. His background working at a floral shop has given him a keen eye for selecting and arranging flowers. Throughout their garden, the couple has carefully incorporated the same plants to create a cohesive and unified theme. Colors are strategically placed to create a harmonious look that ties the entire garden together.
Chumich and Mensing’s advice for aspiring gardeners is to use rope to create layouts and to connect with the local gardening community. They emphasize the importance of seeking guidance and support from fellow gardeners, as the gardening community is known for its friendly and helpful nature. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, Chumich and Mensing hope to inspire others to start their own gardens and continue to grow and learn along the way.
The couple’s garden will be open for viewing as part of the 22nd annual Western Garden Tour and Continental Breakfast. This self-guided tour offers a glimpse into some of the most beautiful gardens in Duluth and Proctor, providing inspiration and ideas for garden enthusiasts. With muffins, fruit, juice, and coffee served at the breakfast, attendees can enjoy a morning of exploring stunning gardens and connecting with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Western Garden Tour is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of well-tended gardens.