The Garden of Javier Sotelo feels “like heaven in the summer!” Sotelo exclaimed while reflecting upon the garden he’s developed for more than 25 years. Four interconnected ponds are located where water naturally collects. Water lilies and other plants in the upper pond filter the water. Plants grace the sides of the ponds that are lined with rocks. Sotelo said he doesn’t “play favorites” with the flowers, rather he loves all the colors of his 500 dahlias, 300 lilies, tulips and other spring flowers. His many trees and shrubs include magnolia trees with yellow, pink, white and purple flowers plus 40 apple, pear, peach, plum and cherry trees. The vegetable garden has 12 raised beds planted with onions, peppers, tomatoes, kale, cabbage and herbs. Soleto enjoys picking food from his garden and shares the prolific bounty of his fruits and vegetables with weekly donations to the Vashon Food Bank. Sotelo said he loves “the sense of peace he feels when he’s in it … feeling in touch with nature, enjoying the insects, the birds and other wildlife.”
Vashon Master Gardeners will be on-site to share their knowledge and answer questions. Please park on, SW 28oth St. The garden is an easy .3 mile walk, and a shuttle will also be available.
