About Ruth's Garden Designs

I fell in love with garden design thirty years ago, after buying a piece of property over one hundred acres, in a northern California forest.  Learning how to homestead and the beginnings of garden design came at the same time.

I studied horticulture and have a master's degree from UCLA in landscape design. Much of my experience comes from travel and studying landscape design in Europe.  On the practical side, I have worked with and for landscape architects, architects, contractors, residential and commercial property owners and managers.  My first-hand plant and horticulture experience comes directly from working in wholesale and retail nurseries;  doing plant procurement for a large landscape installation company in the Bay Area, and working with contractors.

I have completed design projects in California, New York and Colorado.  In addition, I currently teach part-time at Santa Rosa Junior College, where I am inspired by my students. My membership in the Garden Conservancy programs and attending classes and lectures keeps my garden knowledge up to date.  

"Ruth was wonderful to work with -- a total professional in every way, with a true passion for the garden. She gave us great ideas and guided us through the whole process in the most delightful way. The work was done with care, concern and courtesy. We recommend Ruth and Personalized Gardens with confidence and enthusiasm."

~ Charles and Jan Whittingham, Tiburon, CA

"Thank you for the grace and light at the center of your garden designs. The lovely spring selections have us smiling."

~ Marilyn Hadley, Tiburon.

Ruth teaches classes in Sustainable Landscape Design at the local junior college, and knows the homeowners of Sonoma County and Marin County.   Personalized Gardens will help you develop a slowness of time and place, a stillness inherent in a well-designed garden.