About - Rebecca Sweet

Freeland Tanner
Jim Peterson, Freeland Tanner, Rebecca Sweet and Sabrina Tanner

Ever since I could walk, I’ve been happiest with my hands in the dirt. There’s something inherently grounding when working in a garden and creating something magical. And, when I can share with others the joy and comfort a garden can provide, nothing brings me more joy.

Naturally, this love of gardening blossomed into a career where I’ve been fortunate to design hundreds of gardens with my company, Harmony in the Garden. Along with designing, I’ve also written garden books and articles, engaged in public speaking, and now work alongside Jim at Garden Design. Over the past 25 years, I’ve seen, photographed, and written about a lot of gardens: professional, personal, private, public, large, and small.

Yet, the Tanner's garden stands out unlike any other I've encountered.

When I first entered their garden fifteen years ago, my heart didn't just skip a beat – it did backflips. When I describe this garden to others, I can only say, "It's like landing in Oz - if Oz had a garden." I've previously written about this inspiring garden, attempting to convey the countless design lessons found in each vignette. But pictures and words can only do so much.

This is why I’m thrilled beyond measure to have this opportunity to share this garden with you in-person, with Freeland and Sabrina leading tours through their 1-acre paradise and offering carefully crafted classes designed to inspire and educate for all climates.

Freeland Tanner
Freeland Tanner, Sabrina Tanner, Jim Peterson, Valarie Peterson, Rebecca Sweet and her husband Tom Urban

Throughout the years, I’ve developed a close friendship with Freeland and Sabrina, bonding over our gardening triumphs and setbacks, new plant discoveries, weather challenges, and everything in between. I’ve been so fortunate to visit their garden dozens of times, capturing its beauty across all seasons. It never ceases to amaze me how the garden continually transforms, with each visit showcasing a new and magnificent display.

This is their private garden, rarely open to the public, which makes it an even more extraordinary experience. Every corner of their garden has a story to tell, woven together with elements that will enchant, inspire, and educate. This exclusive access offers a unique chance to witness firsthand the masterful blending of art and horticulture, offering you a rare glimpse into Freeland and Sabrina’s horticultural expertise and creative process.

Interested in being inspired, learning and applying your garden knowledge?