The Sonoma Horticultural Nursey is tucked away off a narrow country lane in south Sebastopol. If you weren’t looking for it, you would never know these eight-and-a-half acre demonstration gardens existed. Once you find it, you will lose yourself in the enchanting enclave. Ponds, sculptures, giant gunnera, fountains, a beautiful allée, and bridges wind and weave through a private little paradise, with more than a mile and a half of pathways. You can go for a visit, for inspiration, a picnic, or to stock up on special plants for your own garden.

The nursery and gardens are open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no charge for individuals or small groups and reservations are not necessary. Groups of ten or more must reserve two weeks in advance; cost is $5 per person. Guided tours are $10 per person, with a five person minimum. Groups are welcomed on weekdays only.

Sonoma Horticultural Nursery, 3970 Azalea Lane, Sebastopol, 95472, (707)823-6832, sonomahort@comcast.net.