Willow Oak is an oasis in the midst of a very busy urban area. A group of us, three generations, were there for a fairy festival. The commitment of the owners to their craft is evident. Members of the staff were dressed up for the occasion. Numerous activities were carefully planned for the children. But, despite all the thought and effort that went into this special day, beyond a cursory walk through we ended up leaving rather quickly. Why? Because the overall feeling of neglect superceded the charm of the event. The gardens were overgrown with weeds, fencing/barriers were deteriorated and falling down, dead flowers needed to be deadheaded and dead plants removed. My 75 year old mother tripped over a garden hose lying across a foot path. She wasn't badly hurt (just bumps and bruises) and laughed off in true fairy style, and from that point forward we knew to step over the hoses strewn about. But, surely someone should have made certain the paths were clear and safe to walk along, especially knowing many members of the public would be present that day. The farm goes beyond rustic. It is almost depressing. While I know how hard it is to take care of such a large space and multiple gardens, (from a visitor's and gardener's perspective) a little more emphasis on the aesthetics of the environment would go a long way to making Willow Oak the local treasure it has the potential to be.
Pros: Good selection of herbs & knowledgable staff
Cons: Run down atmosphere, gardens need work
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