The Enchanting Garden of Irina Ulyanova: A Combination of Plants Works Wonders
In one of my previous articles, I used a photograph from Irina Ulyanova’s garden to illustrate possible combinations of rudbeckias with other plants. I stumbled upon Irina’s page on a social network and found myself captivated, scrolling through the astonishingly beautiful photographs of her garden.
With the charming hostess’s permission, I would like to tell you about her creation, her garden. The space crafted by Irina with love and passion is awe-inspiring, inspiring, and evokes a whirlwind of emotions and feelings.
The garden is also interesting because it is not located in the southern regions with favorable climates but rather in the Perm Krai, in the third climatic zone.
But let’s start from the beginning
Thirteen years ago, Irina and her husband Alexander became the owners of a 50-acre plot in a village located 70 kilometers away from Perm. The empty piece of land was like a blank canvas for their creativity.
Without any formal training, Irina, a former math teacher who had been working as an accountant for many years, managed to create a garden filled with delightful flower beds, mixed borders, vibrant colors, and a joyful atmosphere.
It took the owners a great deal of persistent work, imagination, and determination to create their dream garden.
After some time, Irina and her husband moved to the village permanently and dedicated all their free time to gardening.
Irina says that everything created on the plot appeared on instinct or by chance. Her example proves that anyone can create a unique landscape if they have the desire.
The inner sense of taste and harmony distinguishes Irina’s garden. She is like a talented artist painting garden pictures with broad, vivid strokes of floral curtains.
But talent and an appreciation for beauty are not enough. Daily care and attention to her flower beds, including watering, weeding, fertilizing, and countless other tasks, are essential to achieve visible results.
In Irina’s garden, one can study the principles of constructing flower beds, analyze the components of mixed borders, and search for the secret behind such extraordinary harmony and attractiveness.
Irina is not afraid to use a variety of plants, from humble “country” varieties to majestic exotics. Simple chamomiles, ubiquitous lupines, and carnations coexist with grasses, hostas, onions, and verbenas… The diversity of plants is impressive, but they all miraculously blend together in flower beds and mixed borders.
Irina generously shares her experience and knowledge without expecting anything in return. “Ask me anything,” she says, “and I will tell you everything I know about plants.” After all, the teacher within Irina’s soul has never disappeared; there is a need to share and benefit others.
I am convinced that Irina could write a book about the flowers in her garden. I would gladly acquire a colorful edition with photographs of marvelous combinations, deconstructed flower beds, and detailed information about plant names and characteristics.
Perhaps, after reading my article, Irina will consider moving in that direction? Who’s in favor?
For 40 years, Irina has walked through life hand in hand with her husband Alexander. He was her classmate, then her beloved husband, the father of their charming daughters, and a reliable friend and comrade.
I believe that without Alexander’s help and support, such an incredibly beautiful and vibrant garden would not have been possible. It’s a credit to the entire family. Irina affectionately calls him “Sancha,” which means “my brave comrade” in Russian.
Irina possesses a lively and joyful character, composing funny four-line verses that uplift those around her, including her army of admirers and followers, with good spirits and a positive attitude.
Oh, to buy a yacht,
A bank and a couple of villas…
I thought… while dusting off
Crumbs from the villas…
I thank Irina Ulyanova for granting permission to use her wonderful flower photographs in this article dedicated to her enchanting garden.
I hope that, together with me, you have gained inspiration and an extraordinary stimulus for creating your own dream garden!