“Paws, Wings & Wild Things”: Almost Ready!
We are nearly there! In early May, our volunteers installed a pergola and paver patio—imagined as if attached to a house—complete with a bistro table and container plantings. In the garden, you will find the roomy “Fur Season Resort Catio,” the “Del Bark Zoomie Run” dog run (plus a balance beam for playful pups), and our “Slurp ’N Chirp Oasis” water feature, which welcomes wildlife, pets, and people alike. A shaded seating nook under the Desert Willow sits next to that water basin, and the Rodgers Red vine is already climbing the pergola. Throughout the space, native shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers are planted, mulch keeps roots cool, and a flagstone walkway connects the patio to the seating area. Just a few final touches—signage, solar “paw print” lights, and décor—stand between us and judging day.
On June 5, the Paul Ecke Jr. Garden Show judges will tour each exhibit—evaluating how we’ve showcased sustainability, water conservation, organic practices, and thoughtful native plant selection in line with the Fair’s “Pet-tacular” theme. They’ll note things like mulch that keeps roots cool and climate-perfect plant choices (Canyon Prince Wild Rye, White Sage, Hummingbird Sage, Desert Mallow, and more). Cash prizes and ribbons go to first, second, and third place in the Theme category—$1,000, $500, and $350 respectively—along with merit awards like “Watersmart Landscape” and “Best New Exhibitor.” Winners are announced soon after judging wraps, so please keep your fingers crossed!
Want a closer look at the garden layout or pet-friendly ideas for your own space?
- Fair Garden page “Paws, Wings & Wild Things”: See the finalized design plan (with labeled zones) and our complete plant list.
- Petscaping with Native Plants page: Discover how to design pet-friendly gardens, from overall layout to dog-safe elements, cat-focused tips, and shared benefits for wildlife and people.
Fair details:
- Dates: June 11 – July 6, 2025 (closed Mondays & Tuesdays)
- Location: Outside O’Brien Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (on open days)
Mark your calendars, bring the family (and your leashed pets), and stop by to see how native plants, simple pathways, and thoughtful features create beautiful, functional spaces for people, pets, and wildlife. We can’t wait to share our finished garden—and we hope to bring home a few ribbons!
