Barrie Agar is the Head Gardener at Hatley Park, the majestic parks and grounds that surround Royal Roads University. Designed in the early 1900's when the castle was built by James and Laura Dunsmuir, the gardens continue to delight visitors who can spend hours meandering the paths that lead through the Rose Garden, the Italian Garden, the Japanese Garden and more.

Barrie recently spoke with Shannon Moneo of Boulevard Magazine, sharing some interesting insight about her experience with the huge task of planning, managing and maintaining the gardens.

How do you plan the year for a 245-hectare garden?

There’s a rhythm. We know at certain times of year to do specific things. We always have new projects. You walk around and mentally you’re always planning. Because  it’s the Garden’s 100th Anniversary, we’ve done special plantings.

Do deer remain a problem?

They’re definitely an issue. There are a lot of predators here: mink, otters, the odd cougar, eagles, owls. Deer are controlled by a fence in the main gardens. The rest of the property, any plantings we do must be deer resistant or not so tasty.

How many weddings to you have each year?

30 to 40. The setting alone attracts weddings. You can see the sea; on a clear day you can see the mountains. The architecture is lovely.

What do you love about gardening?

The process. I like the soil, getting things ready. Growing from seed is very satisfying. You have to think long-term. We have to think, what is going to happen 100 years from now? Is this going to be the right place for it? You have to be very optimistic.

In each season, what is your favourite plant?

In early spring, it’s simple flowers: snowdrops, hellebores. The wisteria in the Italian Garden is gorgeous in May. The Rose Garden is incredible, just the smell and the beauty of the blooms. I love the autumn leaf colour. In the winter, I like the forest. You don’t need glaring colour all the time. You can wait for spring, it’s anticipation.

Read the full article about Barrie Agar in the May 2013 issue of Boulevard Magazine and plan to visit Hatley Park this summer to enjoy Barrie's beautiful handiwork for yourself!