Visitors can go Through The Garden Gate at GardenScape

With one of the longest, harshest winters on record almost behind us, GardenScape 2003 promises to be the perfect getaway for those longing for a taste of springtime. "Through The Garden Gate," the theme for GardenScape 2003, will transport visitors to their own garden fantasy with nearly 20 gardens in full bloom, all designed and constructed by the Genesee-Finger Lakes Nursery & Landscape Association.

As visitors stroll "Through the Garden Gate" at GardenScape 2003, they'll embark on a journey that will take them to an array of gardens including gardens of exciting resort destinations and gardens that take you back to a different place and time. Visitors will enjoy the lush gardens of the south of France and Hawaii, as well as fantasy gardens including a "Jurassic Park" garden. GardenScape 2003 is March 20-23 at the Dome Center in Henrietta.

A sample of gardens designed for the show include:

• Zaretsky and Associates, Inc. present "Un Jardin de Provence." Travel around the world to experience the landscapes of the south of France.
• The Marstan Landscape Company will use the rustic charm of an old barn surrounded by native plants, exotic plant material, knick-knacks and an old water pump with running water to reflect a relaxed lifestyle in a rural setting. A big table offering a feast of homegrown vegetables will sit on the nearby patio.
• Combining both geometry and nature, is the Ted Collins and Associates garden. When familiar lines, forms, and angles with their geometric crispness collide with the infinitely variable forms of nature, a striking contrast results.
• The Birchcrest Jurassic Garden will house an active volcano and gorgeous waterfalls. It is a colorful garden filled with live plants and creatures from prehistoric times.

After GardenScape visitors finish touring the gardens in the Dome, they will proceed to enjoy more gardens, exhibits and the Gardeners' Marketplace in Minett Hall. They will first travel through the "Bonsai Zone" exhibit, presented by the Bonsai Arboretum in the hallway and will be transported to a traditional Japanese bonsai garden. Included is a studio where bonsai artist William N. Valavanis can be seen working on his masterpiece bonsai creations.

Nearly 20 gardens and over 80 exhibitors will be on display at GardenScape 2003. Tickets for GardenScape are $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 , and free for children 5 and under at the door. Discount tickets are available at Rowe Photographic, Video and Audio, 1737 Mt. Hope Avenue, and 2590 West Ridge Road.