For the Rapids City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – For the past 19 years, Wood County Master Gardeners have worked with area homeowners who open their gardens and yards to hundreds of visitors in July. On  July 21, they will celebrate their 19th garden walk, with all of the garden sites located in the Wisconsin Rapids and uniquely different.

In addition to the gardens, there will be chef demonstrations, the Art in the Garden Boutique, artist displays, as well as live music.

Musicians will add to the serenity of the some of the gardens, including: Flutist Maggie Schutz and Guitarist Bob Kosmoski; and local artists will work in the gardens, including: Pat Ruesch – maple syrup-making process/sales, clay – porcelain and acrylics; David Farmbrough – photography; Amber Lobner – pencil drawings and skulls; and Bill Heipp – Moonlight honey, bees, and honey-making, handcrafted soaps.

The garden walk will be held from 9:30 a.m.  – 3:30 p.m. on July 21, and will feature six gardens in the Wisconsin Rapids area.

After touring the gardens, check out the Art in the Garden Boutique located on the grounds of the Le Chateau The Manor B&B, 840 First St. N,, Wisconsin Rapids.

Several area merchants and all Master Gardener volunteers have Garden Walk tickets for sale. Call the UW-Extension Wood County office at 715-421-8440 for a list of locations or go online at http://wood-county-master-gardeners.org or on Facebook.  The Garden Walk will be held rain or shine.