Marla Nulph, a 23-year resident of the River Crossing neighborhood in Mill Creek, has proudly featured her garden in this year's garden tour. Marla moved to Mill Creek from Billings, MT in 1988 for her husband’s job. They initially settled in Highlands South before buying the first completed house in River Crossing on February 28th, 2001, the day of the Nisqually Quake.

Marla has loved the friendly and well-kept neighborhood of River Crossing, which is just a short walk to Town Center. Her favorite aspect of her yard is the view from her kitchen window, overlooking the pond and waterfall. The soothing noise from the waterfall provides a sense of privacy, even when neighbors are outside. She also enjoys spending time in the garden with her dog, Bandit. 

Marla's garden stands out due to its pond, absence of a lawn, and sustainable environment. She uses minimal water, avoids herbicides and insecticides, and applies only a little natural fertilizer when needed. Her garden is a Certified Sustainable Landscape by the City of Mill Creek. The garden has significantly transformed since Marla moved in. Only a few of the original arborvitae, one azalea, and one tree remain. With help from a dear friend from Kansas City, Marla made last-minute touches to the garden and hosted volunteers, an artist, and her husband during the tour. This was the second public tour for her garden, the first being the Mill Creek Garden Club’s inaugural public tour in 2015. Her garden has also been featured in several private tours.

Marla has been a member of the Mill Creek Garden Club since 1996, serving as President for three years (2008-2011) and 2nd Vice President for numerous years. Though she has retired from active board activities, she still participates in some committees, including the 40th committee during the past year's celebration of the club's 40th anniversary. She values the camaraderie among the club’s members and enjoys the monthly programs and occasional excursions. The garden tour is the club’s main fundraiser, with all net profits supporting the community. Beneficiaries include the Grants Program at Edmonds College, scholarships in Horticulture, Farmer Frog, Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County, and the Mill Creek Community Food Bank.

Marla has also contributed to her neighborhood and city. She served on the River Crossing Architectural Control Committee and Landscape Control Committee for 15 years, including a term as chair of both committees. Her involvement has fostered friendships with neighbors she might not have met otherwise. Additionally, Marla was a member of the Mill Creek Art and Advisory Board for nine years starting in 2008 or 2009, where she enjoyed learning about the city’s behind-the-scenes activities and contributing to community benefits.

Marla Nulph’s garden is a testament to her dedication to sustainability, community involvement, and the joy of gardening. Visitors to this year's garden tour undoubtedly appreciated the beauty and tranquility of her meticulously maintained garden.