David Mickelson said it’s about bringing a variety of color, texture, joy and beauty to our residents’ home on the shores of Lac La Belle. As Shorehaven’s landscaper, he is proud the organization earned the Oconomowoc Woman’s Club July Beautiful Yard of the Month.
This sanctuary of natural beauty encompasses more than 23 acres on Oconomowoc’s western edge, where 380 residents reside and 417 staff are employed. Family members and guests marvel at the rotating array of perennials, shrubs, annuals and its beautiful array of decorative pots filled stunning annual flower combinations. The residents also take delight in the birds and pollinators attracted to the plants. “Just to see the smiles on people’s faces, to take in their enjoyment, is inspiring for us. One family member even said, ‘It’s better than Walt Disney World.’”
“So many of these residents used to be gardeners, and they are so proud to live in a home with so much natural beauty,” said Mickelson. His favorites are the roses and long blooming Paniculata Hydrangeas, the Supertunia Vista Annuals and the Nepeta, Cat’s Pajamas and Allium, Peek a Boo perennials. “Anything that is deer resistant quickly becomes my favorite.” In May the crew was once again planting its vast array of annual containers which are placed throughout the grounds with even more splashes of color. Dave appreciates the hard work and pride that his team invests each year to create the natural wonder for residents and community.