Gardeners are all passionate about the plants that they grow, and in many cases, gardeners have one or two gardener's paradises where they purchase their plants. I have spoken to people who refuse to give up the name of their favourite nursery for fear that it become "trendy" - I laughed the first time someone politely refused to give up the name...

Funny, but now I know what that shoe fits like! I too have found my own favourite nursery! I have discovered the ultimate gardener's Shangri-la located between Acton and Rockwood Ontario called Lost Horizons. Its like it's my dirty little gardening secret and I have been very selective in who I discuss it's merits with.

Majestic pine trees, a stream, and at least 10 acres of naturalized gardens are but the visual splendors awaiting the first time visitor. Add a selection of perennials, grasses and trees and shrubs that include the perennial gardener's favourites, up to and including rare and exotic alpines, and you have a glimpse of what to expect. The extensive catalogue contains close to 3000 entries, many of which are available at a given time. Its understandable that the most popular are the first to go. For the true gardening addict, this catalogue is like a summer-long read! Mine is always close at hand, dog-eared and highlighted as it is, especially when I'm off on a weekend garden walk checking out the lovely gardens in the area.

Plants are healthy and lush, grown in a deep rich growing compound to ensure that new plants develop a strong root system, as opposed to plants that are grown in 4" pots stuffed with peat and little else! Most plants are sold in the one gallon format, ensuring strong root development and enough room to allow for sturdy stems and plenty of foliage and blooming potential. It's all part of setting standards that surpass those of most large scale nursery operations, but then again, Lost Horizons is so much more than most steel and fibreglass grow operations.

Tour the extensive naturalized gardens that branch out in all directions - its so easy to lose oneself amongst the majestic pines, strolling through beds of plants that are instantly recognizable, and even better, stumbling upon something that leaves you short of breath, needing to know where you can lay your hands on one for your own garden.

Its a laid-back environment, but this doesn't mean that the staff aren't eager to assist you, be it finding the plant that's in full bloom in one of the gardens, to offering expert advice about growing requirements or assisting in creating the perfect balance in a new perennial garden that you are planning. If you're wanting to have a garden created, check out the landscape division - you won't be disappointed!

I went looking for a plant the first part of June and have been back every weekend since. For the true green blooded perennial gardener, Lost Horizons is the place for you! Plan a visit today, and discover a sanctuary that will inevitably become your home-away-from-home!