Jan and her husband Don live on 30 acres at the eastern edge of the Loess Hills in southwest Iowa. About three acres are in gardens, where Jan tests and photographs the plants and techniques that she writes about. She grows hundreds of different flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables.

The couple shares an interest in trees and shrubs, and has more than 500 species.

Part of the acreage is a native woodland with oaks, hickories, walnuts, hackberries, Kentucky coffee trees, hophornbeams and other Midwest species, with native wildflowers beneath. A small deck overlooks a spring-fed creek. Almost a mile of hiking trails wind up and down the hillsides, with vistas of the woods and grasslands. One trail crosses a footbridge and leads to a hillside gazebo, plus a nearby outhouse with a solar-powered composting toilet.

Club tours: Garden clubs can schedule two- to three-hour tours of Jan's gardens and acreage, led by Jan and her husband Don. The best time for a tour is a weekday morning, although evening and weekend hours are sometimes possible. Tours include plenty of time to ask questions and shoot pictures. Fee: $5 per person ($50 for clubs with fewer than 10 members.). Club program-planners should call Jan at (712) 527-3503.

Not in a garden club? Organize your own tour group! Just get together 10 or more people who want to see Jan's gardens. These tours include a look at all the garden areas, optional hikes on the woodland trails, and opportunities to ask Jan your garden questions. Fee: $5 per person ($50 for groups of fewer than 10 people). Contact Jan at (712) 527-3503.

Classes and seminars: Watch this site for announcements. Or contact Jan to request a garden class for 10 or more people.

(NOTE: Accessibility is limited because the acreage is very hilly and some walkways are narrow; please ask about accommodations for your members who have special needs. Special arrangements are required for children under 12.)