Along Hawkins Street in Hollister is a historical home surrounded by a garden full of flowers, herbs, vegetables and more. A low fence intentionally designed that way by the owners, surrounds the front of the property, allowing the community to catch a glimpse of the garden as it changes throughout the seasons.
David and Susanne Pribyl have been caring for their home since they moved there in 2013. Often neighbors and high schoolers walking by stop to admire their garden and ask questions. The couple, both former teachers, are more than happy to share their knowledge.
The two met while working at Gilroy High School. Between the two they taught biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology just to name a few subjects. The garden has become a passion project for them, Susanne commenting that after decades of teaching biology, it felt like the time to start doing some biology.
“A lot of people mistakenly believe that this is a huge amount of work,” said Susanne but in the growing season, it can be rather hands off for weeks at a time. Plants wrap around the ½ acre property, all connected to an extensive drip system.
“We’ve actually been complimented by the Water Department. They say they can’t believe how little water we use, because we water at 5:30 in the morning and only water for 15 minutes. It goes straight to the roots, no evaporation,” remarks David.
A couple crates of pomegranates sit on the steps of their house. When there’s a boom in a crop, often a basket like this is set near the sidewalk to share with neighbors.
Being active in the yard and enjoying the literal fruits of that labor has had a positive impact on the couple’s health. Plus, Susanne adds, the peaceful garden is a creative outlet for her.
A view of the Fairy Garden recently added to their yard. Here, solar powered fairy lights are placed amongst herbs and flowers. When asked when they think the garden might be finished, David said, “Gardens are never finished. Nature teaches you- the hard way- what works and doesn’t work and you have to be willing to change and evolve.”
David said that they love all the wildlife (birds, insects, animals, etc.) they’ve created a habitat for. Here, the egg case of a praying mantis sits in between some vines.
Varieties of sage are found throughout the garden as it’s a great source for pollinators. While pointing out the Amistad sage along the side of the house, Susanne says, “everybody should have it in their garden.”
Amidst trimming the roses, Susanne embraces her husband of 42 years in their garden. “Our home and yard is a labor of love for both of us and when we manage to accomplish something beautiful together it’s the best thing in the world. It brings us closer,” says Susanne.
The post The teachers’ garden appeared first on BenitoLink.