Garden tour continues 'Very Secret' fall tradition

Rayma Silvers/Tribune Photo The only sneak peak authorized at one of the hidden gardens of Fort Scott to be toured Sept. 13.

Area residents who enjoy the peacefulness of a colorful garden spread, have the opportunity to experience an evening of intrigue and relaxation.

At 5 p.m. this Saturday, the Bourbon County Master Gardeners and Garden Club will take area residents on a Very Secret Garden Tour. Since the tour will only accommodate 50 guests, the garden club's food chairman Martha Scott said all attendees must purchase a ticket by this afternoon at 5 p.m. in order to participate in this rare event. No one will be allowed to go on the tour without the purchase of a ticket prior to the event, Scott said.

Area residents who purchased tickets for the event should meet at the parking lot located at Fifth and Judson streets.

At the parking lot, event attendees will board the Fort Scott Trolleys at which time they will embark on a secret journey. According to a press release from Bourbon County Master Gardeners and Garden Club, Saturday's tour will include three uniquely charming gardens.

"Tourgoers will travel by trolley to visit three beautiful and diverse gardens in Fort Scott," the press release said. "This event differs from the biennial summer garden tour. The emphasis for 'A Very Secret Garden Tour' is a casual stroll through gardens that are in the midst of fall splendor."

According to Scott, the evening is sure to be a relaxing experience.

"You always feel like your special when you are chauffeured from one place to another," she said.

Adding this time of year the gardens are more lush then they were during the June garden tour as the plants have had an opportunity to mature. In addition to the annuals in the gardens, Scott said event attendees will see fall foliage including some asters and some mums.

Those who participate in the garden tour will be served various appetizers and desserts, in addition to adult beverages, the press release said.

Anyone wishing to purchase a ticket, is urged to do so immediately. Tickets are available for $20 at either Country Cupboard, 12 N. Main, or at the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall. In the event of rainy weather, the tour will still occur, the press release said.

Proceeds from the tour will be used for Pennies for the Park and community beautification.