The first thing we did was to form some level areas from the sloping field and then we had it all put down to grass. As time, energy and money have allowed, we have created garden areas from this ‘green page’. Alwyne has made all the patios, walls, pergolas, fountains and the raised beds.
Yes, we do it all ourselves, including the day-to-day maintenance. Ann’s first planting was to put hundreds of daffodil and bluebell bulbs under two huge oak trees on the rear lawns. Spring is gloriously yellow then blue.
Four level areas now connect with steps and grassy banks to provide formal and informal gardens with different colour themes. The house is connected to a formal garden containing a fountain, pool and yew hedges by a large paved patio. A small knot garden is bordered by a white wisteria-clad pergola and lavender hedging and leads to a large circular lawn. This circular lawn has mixed borders with a purple, white, blue and pink colour palette, and is planted to provide interest throughout the year. This area can be enjoyed from a vine-clad arbour. The highest area of the garden is devoted to specimen trees including liquidambers, acers and birches, under-planted with bulbs. The lowest level area of the garden has a greenhouse, raised vegetable beds and fruit trees, some of which are fan-trained to form a walk-way.
The garden is very 'young'. We still have plans to develop it further and
gain our inspiration from enjoying other people's gardens.
The lady in the picture is Ann's mother. At 94 she still takes an interest in gardening.
Opening Times and Events 2010
* National Garden Scheme for charity: Saturday 10th July 5-8pm wine/snacks; Sunday 11th July 2-6pm teas/cakes.
* Other opening times are by appointment for individuals and groups - just telephone or email to arrange a date and time. Teas / light refreshments can be provided.
