FUSTIC HOUSE, ST. LUCY
Open Garden – Sunday, February 19th, 2017, 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
Mr. and Mrs. Kit Braden have very kindly agreed to let the Horticultural Society have the beautiful and amazing garden and grounds of their lovely home at Fustic House for our Open Garden program on Sunday, February 19th.
These spacious grounds comprising eleven and a half acres are a true paradise. The palm grove on one level was created by the late Stan Michilleni and Janine Weetch, the current Landscaper has been working fervently over the past year to develop many more terraces. From the main entrance the winding driveway is bordered by many types of trees which are surrounded by the giant Philodendron Melinonii and very effective lighting. Manicured lawns, Fustic Trees, (not found in many parts of our island), Mahogany, Frangipani and many others too numerous to mention, flowering shrubs such as Thunbergia, Star Jasmine, Begonias, Bougainvillea to name but a few. Many varieties of Philodendron, Bird’s Nest Ferns, Alocasias, Ornamental grasses, Golden Chalice vines covering the arched walkway are among the many species and plants in this original part of the garden.
There are several pools with fountains and a lovely bronze statue of a fisherman. The small lake with its tiny island, is well stocked with fish such as Koi, water lilies, a massive Amazonia Lily and Lotus also not prevalent in many gardens in Barbados. The spacious terrace to the west affords a panoramic view of the west coast inviting one to sit and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. The many paved paths and steps to the various levels and terraces in the garden make for easy access to most areas. On one terrace, the unusual swimming pool with the waterfall appears to be almost carved out of the rock face of the overhanging cliff. The wooden deck overlooking the swimming pool provides yet another view of the garden. The most recent addition is a terrace containing all types of Agave, Aloe, Fucrea and other succulents set amongst the interesting natural rock formations in the garden.
There are steps and paths leading to all areas and terraces and a paved road bordered by bougainvillea in full bloom leads back up to the main level. These spacious grounds with the many trees provide plenty of shade and space for exploring or for the less adventurous, easy ambling around, enjoying the cooling breezes and ambiance of the surroundings.
Teas and refreshments will be served on the spacious terrace outside the Dining Room.
Directions to Fustic House – From Speightstown continue north past port St. Charles, Port Ferdinand, keep left go through Six Men’s Fishing Village to the roundabout, then turn left, pass the Fishpot restaurant and continue through Moon Town, up the hill and turn right at the sign Fustic Village and follow the road and track to two entrances to Fustic House – the main gate and the new gate to the east of the garden where there is ample parking. There will be no parking available in the grounds and garden.
Both Yellow and Green BHS Open Garden signs will be posted along the route. Admission is $15.00 and $10.00 for BHS Members on presentation of valid membership Children under 12 years $ 7.00