The vibrant hues and lush foliage of Jeff Milkins and Steve Parker’s garden at Foxhall Ln have earned them recognition as The Garden Club at Palm Coast’s April 2024 Selection of the Month.
Originally from the cooler landscapes of Reading, PA, Jeff, and Steve brought their love for gardening to Palm Coast when they retired in May 2022. What started as a retirement project has now transformed into a lush, tropical poolside retreat, a testament to their dedication and love for gardening.
As you step into their property, you’ll be captivated by the meticulously designed front entrance, a prelude to the botanical wonders that await. Sago palms stand guard amidst a vibrant backdrop of Hawaiian Ti Plants, Mammy crotons, bromeliads, and red bougainvillea, all accentuated by two magnificent Crinum Lilies. Potted red mandevillas flank the front door, adding further pops of color. A majestic Agave takes center stage in the driveway while potted pink mandevillas adorn the garage.
However, it’s the backyard and pool area that truly transports visitors to a tropical oasis. The pièce de résistance is Jeff and Steve’s orchid house, boasting over 100 plants representing a dazzling array of more than a dozen varieties. Beyond the orchids, the manicured back garden bursts with color from blooming pink azaleas, yellow Shrimp plants, Fire Bush, red pentas, Indian Hawthorn, Golden Dew Drops, and Elephant Ears.
Around the pool area, memories of Pennsylvania mingle with the exotic as (Clivia Miniata) an orange bush lily lovingly transported by Jeff and Steve, finds a new home amidst white bromeliads, poinsettias, and Vanda orchids — the variety coveted by Hawaiians for their iconic leis.
Jeff and Steve’s garden is not merely a collection of plants; it’s a testament to their passion, creativity, and dedication to bringing beauty to their parcel of Palm Coast. Thank you for enhancing the beauty of our community.
Submitted by Nancy Iandoli
Selection of the Month Committee