The Amherst area boasts many elegant gardens, from relatively young works in progress to well-established and even historic gardens. The Amherst Historical Society’s twelfth annual garden tour will take place on Saturday, June 30, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., rain or shine. It introduces visitors to a highly varied group of sites, ranging from intimate spaces to grand vistas. Seven gardens are in Amherst and one is in Leverett. Collectively they feature stunning borders and cottage gardens, sunny wildflower and shaded woodland gardens, water and rock gardens, cutting gardens and raised beds. These areas are populated with specimen trees, ornamental bushes (including roses), interesting perennials and annuals, striking grasses, and herbs and vegetables – often highlighted by stone paths, steps and walls as well as by trellises, decks, gazebos, and bridges.

The tour is self-guided; a map is provided along with a description of each garden. Tickets cost $20 for adults ($15 for Society members) and $5 for children. They will be on sale at the Amherst History Museum (67 Amity St., Amherst, MA 01002), A. J. Hastings (45 S. Pleasant St., Amherst), Andrew’s Greenhouse (1178 South East St., Amherst), Hadley Garden Center (285 Russell St., Hadley), and Annie’s Garden and Gift Store (Rte. 116, N. Amherst). All proceeds benefit the Amherst Historical Society, which owns and operates the Amherst History Museum. This event is sponsored by Realty World Sawicki, Mark Teed and A. G. Edwards & Sons, and Blair, Cutting & Smith Insurance. For more information, call 413-256-0678

MATURE GARDENS WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS
This wildlife-friendly property contains a variety of trees and shrubs anchoring perennial beds that entice butterflies and hummingbirds. See wisteria, clematis, roses, grasses, vegetables, and native woodland plants – plus a charming brick terrace and a greenhouse.

ENGLISH STYLE COTTAGE GARDENS SURROUNDING A FARMHOUSE
Picket fences and cottage-style borders, originally inspired by tree peonies received from an uncle, have expanded and evolved to include additional interesting trees, shrubs and perennials – mostly shaded by mature maples, but with one sunny bed near the barn.

GARDENS WITH A LOVING HISTORY
The recently married owners have filled their flower borders with many perennials and bushes handed down from grandmothers and friends. Low fieldstone walls, a small water garden, a swimming pool and a barn for their Belgian draft horses complete the picture.

A BOUNTIFUL FRONT YARD SETS THE STAGE
A recently cleared front yard now harbors mostly native bushes and perennials, with newer gardens leading into the backyard. View shady borders, raised beds for vegetables and cutting flowers, interesting young trees and bushes, and a sunken stone patio.

A SMALL BUT LUSHLY PLANTED IN-TOWN LOT
Borders of evergreen trees, plus rhododendrons and other flowering trees and shrubs, shade perennial beds and winding paths that meander past low stone walls, benches and stone sculptures. Sunny areas contain roses, tree peonies, foxgloves and other treasures.

AN ARTIST’S LANDSCAPE OF DELIGHTS
View a sunny meadow landscape of color, texture and charm: stone walkways, whimsical sculptures, shrubbery and ground covers, perennial beds, ornamental grasses, a moon garden, a piazza with plant-filled containers, and a wisteria-covered pergola.

A LANDSCAPER’S HOME TERRITORY
An 1832 farmhouse and barns sit on 12.5 acres divided into four parts: an entry area with elegant stonework and perennials; a brook and nursery of unique specimen plants; a pond and open-air “hootch;” and a hidden work area with equipment and stored materials.

A STUNNING PANORAMA WITH SCULPTURES LARGE AND SMALL
This large property offers open vistas and intimate spaces – wildflower meadows, shade gardens, mixed borders, a vegetable and cutting garden, sweeping lawns, water features, sculptures, and lovely stonework – providing a sanctuary for both wildlife and people.