See private gardens galore on these local tours

The last Saturday in April is prime garden time in Sacramento. No wonder this weekend is crowded with garden tours!

Fortunately, the weather looks like it will cooperate – but bring a coat or sweater (and maybe an umbrella, too).

A storm system will be passing through the Sacramento area in the wee hours of Saturday morning, headed for the Sierra. According to the National Weather Service, Sacramento will get very little if any precipitation from those clouds. “Slight chance of rain showers” – with probability of showers at only 20% – is forecast for Saturday morning, with no rain Saturday afternoon or Sunday.

But unlike this past week, temperatures will be under normal; Saturday’s forecast high for Sacramento is only 63 degrees – 10 degrees below average and more than 20 degrees cooler than Monday, April 21, when Sacramento reached 84 degrees.

Consider these lower temperatures invigorating – and get out and see some beautiful spring gardens. Here are some of the tour possibilities:

River Park Garden Tour: This is a bargain outing packed with inspiration. The River Park Garden Club hosts its 5th annual neighborhood tour featuring “Special Garden Spaces.” Tour hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are only $5 and available on tour day, beginning at 9:45 a.m., at the table on the Caleb Greenwood School lawn, 5457 Carlson Drive, Sacramento.

What to expect? Here are some highlights, according to the organizers: “A skilled Master Gardener’s large ‘experimental’ garden includes many varieties of plants, deliberately native California species, set off by varied walkways, borders, fences, structures, and raised beds constructed by her husband. … Another garden exudes a cool Mid-Century vibe to compliment the house it sits behind. Strictly spare geometry sets the tone for beds and social spaces. … Yet another garden is made for entertaining. It spreads out around a pool with a naturalized rock waterfall.”

Children under 15 admitted free with an adult. No strollers or pets allowed in the gardens. An artists boutique will feature garden-oriented art and crafts.