Hetebrueg creates her happy place in Town of Wayne

TOWN OF WAYNE — Driving eastbound on Highway D from Highway 41, Brenda and Gene Hetebrueg’s yard draws attention well before a sign announcing their business’ name, Garden View Farm, is visible.

The Hetebruegs’ cream city brick farmhouse is surrounded by gardens, plantings, decorations and color. During growing season, Brenda Hetebrueg spends some time every day it is possible planting, planning, weeding and deadheading flowers that have exceeded their prime. Maintaining an abundance of plants takes a commitment, but the relaxation and joy it brings exceeds the work required to do it.

"This is my hobby more than a chore," Hetebrueg said. "After a day at work, this is what I enjoy doing. Working out in the garden is time in my happy place."

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Hetebrueg was raised in a family where raising plants was a hobby and a career; her brothers continue to operate Paradise Gardens Nursery in West Bend. Throughout the years, Hetebrueg’s garden has been both a temporary and permanent home to plants looking for life outside the nursery.

"We have very good soil here," she said. "Most things that get planted here end up doing really well."

Hetebrueg’s gardens are a mix of perennials and annuals supplemented by yard art pieces, antique farming equipment and other decorations. Plants grow in the soil and in containers around the farmhouse, driveway, barn and driveway. Berries and vegetables grow in the back while a colorful array of grasses, flowers and plants are visible from Highway D as well as throughout the property.

When planning new gardens and design changes, Hetebrueg considers color, height, seasonal blooms and variety, all with a goal of creating a vibrant display easily viewed from inside and outside her house. A patio behind the house is a favorite spot for a morning cup of coffee or dinner after a day in the office.

"I have always enjoyed gardening and can’t imagine not doing it," she said. "But I do make time to enjoy it as well."

During summer, Hetebrueg takes freshly cut flowers to share with her colleagues and customers at work, but most of her flowers stay uncut in her gardens.

"It makes me feel good to hear people say they feel good when they drive by the house," she said. "It does that for me. No matter how bad of a day you are having, when you come home to the gardens, you know it gets a lot better."