The Borders
We have three very long deep borders (100 x10 feet), one backed by an old stone wall ideal for growing clematis and climbing roses. All these sunny borders are packed with interesting perennials, as well as alliums and lilies, interspersed with flowering shrubs and roses. Clematis wander freely among the plants giving an informality to these colourful borders.
Flowering shrubs (viburnums ,azara, daphnes, magnolias) give colour and scent in the spring , and in late summer sedums, heleniums, asters and crab apples ensure that interest in the garden continues throughout the seasons.
Hydrangeas and magnolias grow happily in our woodland borders, shaded by mature yews. The shrubs and trees are underplanted with Cyclamen coum and hederifolium, Pulmonarias, Epimediums, Brunnera and Ompholoides. The magnificent chestnut tree is underplanted with spring bulbs and cyclamen.
Our splendid gazebo was designed and made for us by Tramway Forge: ideal for the clambering roses and clematis that weave their way amongst the grey blue tone of the metal . The four box quadrants around this gazebo contain Rosa Lovely Fairy and Erigeron karwinskianus (although this plant has a will of its own and seems happier in the surrounding cobbles!).
Glass House
Our large glasshouse faces south east, getting sun until the early afternoon. In spring the benches are packed with propagating trays. Then we grow tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers during the summer months. In the winter we fill the space with pelagoniums, tender rhododendrons and camellias.
The Orchard and beyond
Beyond the formal part of the garden we have planted fruit trees: apples (old Herefordshire varieties), plums, pears, and cherries all of which are now bearing good crops. More recently (from 2010) we have begun to plant a collection of ornamental trees, some seed grown by ourselves. Copses of native trees provide shelter and shade for the young trees as they grow.
At the far end of the field you will come to our wildlife pond (created by accident when we took soil for the vegetable beds). Pause awhile to enjoy this peaceful area and watch the dragonflies, and swallows dipping over the water.
