Pehuenes in the Andes

November 22, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 23 Comments

With no garden visits planned for November I decided it was the perfect time to go and find my daughter who lives at Pino Hachado, a mountain pass on the Argentinian side of the Andes. Horses and Huskys de los Pehuenes

Situated at least an hour away from any neighbour, windy and arid with not a huge variety of plant species I did not envisage this to be a gateway to a beautiful garden or horticultural delight.

However what I had not expected were the trees. We had approached Argentina from Chile and driving over the Andes we were amazed at the mass of tall, straight trunks of evergreen trees dripping in lichen; Araucaria araucana, the Chilean Pine, known locally as the Pehuen, and to you and me as the Monkey Puzzle tree.

Now, I have to admit that these trees have never been a favourite of mine, almost considering them a joke really, and I remember as a child thinking how out of place a specimen looked in a near neighbour’s cottage garden.

But here in their natural habitat (central and southern Chile and western Argentina) typically growing above 1,000 m (3,300 ft), they are something different; I could not help but become fascinated by them.

Big and unbending many have been around for a very long time, their longevity making them living fossils.

The bark so hard and rough, has developed to be fire resistant. On the inside of the bark it is smooth, and a small piece of this served as a soap dish in my cabin.

Trees can grow to a staggering 50m, shedding their lower branches the umbrella top towers over the younger ones commanding a regal presence.

Whilst Chile claims it as its national tree, the province of Nequen in Argentina has added it to their Coat of Arms.

It first entered our shores in the hands of Archibald Menzies the 18th century plant collector who was commissioned by the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew to collect plants in South America. It is rumoured that when Menzies dined with the Governor of Chile, seeds of the Araucaria araucana were on the menu, and Menzies pocketed some of the seeds, managing to grow five which he then presented to Joseph Banks at Kew in 1795.

It was a few decades later that William Lobb the plant collector, employed by the Veitch’s nursery, introduced the tree commercially and so the tree became popular amongst Victorian gardeners.

And the name “Monkey Puzzle? Well the story dates back to its early cultivation in Britain when the species was still relatively unknown. Sir William Molesworth of Pencarrow in Cornwall purchased a young specimen for 20 guineas and when showing it to a group of friends, Charles Austin, a noted barrister was reputed to have remarked “It would puzzle a monkey to climb that”. Devoid of an existing common name, ‘Monkey puzzler’ became ‘Monkey puzzle’.

The tree is dioecious; male and female cones grow on separate trees, although very occasionally individual specimens can bear cones of both sexes.

Pollinated by the wind, the cones of the male are smaller than the female, oblong in shape they expand at pollen release.

The female (seed) cones are larger and more rounded, maturing in autumn about 18 months after pollination.

Trees do not yield seeds until they are 30 to 40 years old and the cone holds about 200 seeds, disintegrating at maturity…

to release edible nut-like seeds known locally as pinones.

Preferring well-drained slightly acidic soil, saplings pop up in the volcanic ground; this little chap appears to be mimicking a monkey with its arms out-stretched with upright tail.

Developing into a broadly pyramidal or conical shape, growth is very slow and these trees are actually several years old.

If a trunk falls, life just seems to carry on.

It is amazing to see them just growing out of rock, surviving on apparently little,

no wonder perhaps that they are considered sacred to some members of the local Mapuche Native tribe,

The roots are quite superficial even appearing sometimes above ground; crocodilian, old and gnarly,

they have the ability to sprout new shoots growing some distance away from the tree.

On this high terrain the wind blows strong and whether it is due to this, the arid conditions or simply old age, the end of the branch eventually turns brown, breaks off and a milky white sap oozes forth,

and sharply pointed brown leaves carpet the ground.

Back in the cabin the trees continue to remind of us of their existence; a beautiful old stump turned into a stool seems to have acquired some anthropomorphic traits.

However, once valued for its long straight trunk, and its now vulnerable status, the timber became protected by law in 1971 and is now rarely used.

Stopping at a pizzeria one day I could not resist the opportunity of sampling the Araucaria pizza ……it looked and smelt delicious…

…without going into detail it was something I very much regretted!

Pine nuts are not the only product of the tree; Jet is the result of high-pressure decomposition of the wood and the Jet found at Whitby, North Yorkshire (Whitby Jet) is the early Jurassic fossilized wood of the same species Araucaria araucana.

Although not a garden as such, the gates to Pino Hachado, opened up a new world, an eye-opening view of a species growing in its natural habitat. Surrounded by these huge old giants growing for so many years and in such difficult conditions, I realised that the Monkey Puzzle tree was not so much a joke, but a really intriguing species for which I now have a new-found respect.

——-10/18——-

Horatio’s Garden at Stoke Mandeville

September 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 12 Comments

The Garden Gate was open wide for the new Horatio’s Garden at the spinal unit at Stoke Mandeville Hospital Horatio’s Garden

Horatio’s Garden is one of the beneficiary charities of The National Garden Scheme, and several of us were privileged to be able, at the official opening last Sunday, to mingle amongst the amazing patients and all the wonderful people involved in the garden’s creation.

We followed the signs through the hospital corridors and out into the new garden bathed in the afternoon sunshine. Inpatients can be here in the spinal unit for a seriously long time often confined to beds and wheelchairs, so a beautiful outdoor space is of huge benefit. The gradients and surfaces have to be gentle and ultra smooth. A little bunting added to the gaiety of this great occasion.

Just as a reminder, I was here back on a snowy day in December, this being the final garden in my Ninety Garden Challenge Stoke Mandeville, Horatio’s Garden. (90).

On the spot where Joe Swift explained his designs to Olivia Chapple, the Founder and Chair of Trustees it was hard for me to imagine how this would look…

…now it has been transformed into a delightful space where two smiling volunteers welcomed us in.

What a cold miserable building site it was then, diggers removed 2,500 tons of earth…

…now it looks as if the garden has always been here.

Part of the garden stretches along a covered walkway which obtrusively dominated the site and where visitors and patients enter the main hospital from the car park…

now you are blissfully unaware of the busy flow of hospital life as a simple wooden fence gives privacy, and the border and stone wall give all year round interest.

Right now it is the asters that provide a splash of colour;

and the elegant seed heads of the miscanthus provide texture as they sway gently in the breeze.

The team of workers who constructed the garden ranged in number from 5 to 15 each day, and have now been replaced by some 48 volunteers who work under the guidance of head gardener Jacqui Martin-Lof. At no wish of offending the many head gardeners I have met, she surely is the most elegant.

I am reminded that back in December the only feature I could just make out under the blanket of snow was the shape of the pond…

…today it is a delightful place to sit, reflect and listen to the soothing sound of flowing water.

On one side of the pond is a curved wall with an artful window opening.

Mary Berry, who has opened her garden in Buckinghamshire for over 20 years and is President of the NGS came today to open Horatio’s Garden.

Olivia Chapple, Mary Berry and George Plumptre

Speeches were made, and Olivia Chapple who spoke passionately and without a single note, engagingly gave thanks to the many, many people involved. We all felt such huge admiration for an amazing lady who is the driving force behind this dynamic charity.

Swifty told us that if it had not been for Olivia’s determination the unsightly hospital generator would have unfortunately remained as the centre piece of the garden.

We were then entertained by Magnus Chapple who sang a song he had composed. There were plenty of places to sit and even the smooth bonded resin was comfortable enough for some.

Mary Berry cut the ribbon and declared the garden officially open.

With a big green knife she also cut the cake which was then taken round by cheerful volunteers.

Tea flowed from the garden room, a delightful wooden and glass building where patients and families will be able to enjoy the space and light without feeling they are in hospital.

A young gingko biloba already past the height of the roof is determined to reach that blue sky.

Down on the ground in the flower beds there is a healthy selection of herbs and the waft of mint is prolific today.

This lovely guy picks a sprig of rosemary; he says it is so much better than the air freshner used on the ward.

Access for wheelchairs is usually so limiting but here they are the norm and can be wheeled effortlessly straight out from ward to garden,

where there is plenty of room for a trio to meet.

Wheelchairs come in all shapes and sizes, upright, gyrating and well you could say, almost dancing.

Three great designers enjoy a moment together, Swifty sporting the dahlia ‘Horatio’ pinned to his lapel, is joined by Cleve West who designed the first Horatio’s Garden at Salisbury Hospital, and James Alexander-Sinclair who designed the subsequent Horatio’s Garden at the Scottish National Spinal Unit in Glasgow.

Earlier I had caught sight of Bunny Guinness, but she must have hurried away to complete her designs for the next Horatio’s Garden that she is creating at Oswestry.

Every garden needs a good greenhouse and Horatio’s Garden in no exception.

Accessible and specially equipped, it will be used as part of the therapy programme,

where plants for the garden will be propagated as well as herbs, salads and fruits which the patients can enjoy themselves.

I am reminded again of how it looked before (incidentally the turquoise box behind the fencing in the centre is that generator)…

Ample space for a couple of large hospital beds. It was delightful to see these patients enjoying the fresh air and the warm sun on their faces.

We have enjoyed the gaiety of the afternoon and can see that much thought has gone into the design of this garden. Planned to encourage wildlife and provide colour and texture throughout the year, it must be a sanctuary for those patients facing hugely difficult and life-changing times.

And we must not forget the inspiration behind this extraordinary charity, Horatio Chapple whose short life has given so much and another reason why some of us open our own gardens.

——-9/18——-

Madingley Hall, gardens and health. (8/18)

September 1, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 13 Comments

Having spent a tedious morning on the phone to the Department of Work & Pensions, followed by a lengthy call to BT to try and sort out longstanding internet problems, I decided it was time to visit a garden and restore my equilibrium. Twitter brought my attention to the fact that Madingley Hall was opening its gates as part of the NGS Gardens and Health week.

Driving through the impressive iron gates and sweeping up the drive, the big blue sky and the gentle green meadow had an instant calming effect.

Having parked the car I found the entrance to the estate is through the walled garden. This dates back to the 18th century, with the first recording being of a plant inventory dated 1757. Today a blackboard notes the plants of particular interest.

Two gravel paths diverged……… and I am faced with the age-old dilemma, which one should I take ?

The borders are overflowing with every type of herb to promote well-being;

aromatic…

medicinal…

culinary…

Not only are these plants of a curative nature, but also many can be used for dyeing. Much information about the history and use of these plants is displayed and I realise that I could do much to alter my wardrobe.

Enclosed by hedges the sunken garden is a delightful spot to sit and soak up the sun; planted with white flowers such as perennial sweet pea and gaura lindheimeri, it is softened by the gentle clumps of stipa tenuissima.

There is such variety within these walls, a wooden rose pergola runs roughly from north to south providing much-needed shade rather than colour at this time of year.

Mature trees also provide plenty of canopy and across the curiously patterned round lawn is a circular raised alpine bed.

where the tiny autumn snowflake Acis autumnalis seems a little premature on this warm summer’s day.

Running from east to west is the fine hazel walk Corylus avellana shown on the tithe map of 1849; it is a lengthy 60 metres (just under 200ft) long.

The path emerges from the mature planting into an open expanse of lawn with a thatched summerhouse nestling in the corner.

No sense of autumn approaching here; the border has plenty in flower, hibiscus, heliotrope, alstoemeria and helenium all provide late summer colour.

Leaving the walled garden through a door in the wall and passing the crenelated box hedge on my right I descend some steps to the courtyard in front of the Hall.

Over the ornamental pond and to my horror, I find a patient abandoned on a hospital trolley. Startled, I wonder that it must be the first corpse I have found in a garden, then realise I have blundered into a serious first-aid course and, being of the somewhat lightheaded disposition, I quickly scurry away and

take deep breaths in front of the heavenly hibiscus.

At the east end of the Hall is a formal raised terraced garden with a circular pond surrounded by smooth quirky-shaped topiary.

The view east to the lake is totally unspoilt and uncluttered.

Stepping down to the wide North Walk, I see the balustrade is repeated along the edge of the croquet lawn,

broken at the centre to reveal an avenue of giant clipped yew bollards marching into the far distance.

It is a fine view for this small statue of a buddha protected behind a semi-circular pond and perched in a recess in the wall.

Madingley Hall was built in the 1540s and the development of the garden over the years is a fine example of the history of garden design. Growing at the west end is a large yew taxus baccata, which is thought to date back to when ‘Capability’ Brown improved the estate.

The yew topiary garden was created in the 1920s when some of the topiary were transferred from nearby Histon Manor. Waiting for their annual clip the different shapes seemingly move around an astrolabe mounted in the centre on a stone plinth.

A large elegant croquet lawn with its backdrop of mature trees, must have provided plenty of entertainment over the years. The game is still played today by the many students and staff who now occupy the Hall, which was bought by Cambridge University 1948.

There is a different feel down on this north side of the site; here it is spacious, green, still and silent. Today the majestic trees are quite lovely; upright, spreading, weeping and clipped they create a verdant theatre.

Some trees are multi stemmed and like a cluster of balloon strings they reach up to the sky.

The wild flower meadows have finished their display but next May they will return. Richard Gant, the Head Gardener is tidying the edges of the clipped yews. He has been responsible for these gardens for 30 years. The names of the trees roll off his tongue, for his knowledge and enthusiasm is truly impressive.

And it is as if this weeping Redwood, Wellingtonia (sequoiadendron giganteum ‘Pendula’) bows its head in respect.

Sadly this Cedar of Lebanon, Cedrus libani is unwell with white rot caused by a type of bracket fungus. Now fenced off, the decay of this tree is being closely monitored.

I follow the dog walkers along the wooded path, a section of the route created to celebrate the 300 years of Capability Brown.

It is a beautiful spot enjoyed by the locals. By the lakeside the remains of the footings of the old boat house are guarded by a “lake keeper” who is in fact surprisingly friendly.

From the other side of the lake you can see the small church tucked in to the left of the drive. I have completed my walk and so I return back through the gates and up the drive to the hall.

Madingley Hall is an institute of continuing education and a centre for events and conferences. The 8 acre garden sits within an estate of some 12,500 acres; it is beautifully maintained and reads like a manual on garden history with the different areas reflecting the changing trends in design throughout the garden’s life. It is impressive too and thanks to the Head Gardener, Madingley has been opening its gates for the NGS for the past 27 years.

The NGS have worked hard to highlight the connection between health and gardens, having commissioned the King’s Fund a few years ago to publish a report. My visit today endorsed the feeling of well being that a garden can induce and after such an enjoyable and peaceful afternoon, I left the Hall in a better state of mind than when I entered.

Bank House, well planted in the Fens (7/18)

May 31, 2018May 31, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 9 Comments

The area between Downham Market and Wisbech on the edge of Norfolk is not particularly known for its gardens. Last Sunday driving through the lanes and over the dykes between the flat fertile fields of the Fens, I discovered Bank House. The familiar yellow NGS signs were helpfully posted at all the crossroads which relieved my doubts of getting lost for ever.

On entering the drive to left of the house, I was greeted not only by a sumptuous smell of bacon rising from the kitchen but also an explosion of irises growing along a low wall.

Stepping down past the joyful lupins onto the turf path you are immediately aware that the owners are keen gardeners, for this is a garden where no space is left unattended.

Packed with plants, they are even grown under the shaded canopy of the mature trees right up to the trunks.

This part of the garden is also set aside for production. Young vegetables in neat rows and greenhouses for propagation.

It is always such a pleasure to be able to buy plants grown in the garden but I was mortified to miss out on a purchase of this gorgeous red weigelia.

I don’t imagine the garden owners have much time to sit but all around the garden is a variety of seats delightfully placed.

Quiet areas to soak up the morning sunshine and listen to the bird song.

Or under the shade to enjoy that too tempting bacon butty.

The two acres are divided into many areas. Sometimes decisions have to be made:

I took the brick path towards the orchard where I found some very happy hens,

pecking around an old cart filled with the cut willow.

These wooden deer add a playful note to this wilder side of the garden.

Slipping back into the main part of the garden this clematis seems to be clamouring for attention,

and I am not surprised because the irises are stunning. Iris was the personification of the rainbow in Greek Mythology and here there is such a variety of colour; a splash of gold,

or blending in with the soft summer palette.

You cannot help but admire this flamboyant flower.

However it is not all about vibrant colour, and within this one garden there is such a diverse range of growing conditions.

This lady catches the sun hiding modestly amongst a collection of greenery.

There is a selection of fun topiary in the making too,

and nearby in the long border an impressive patch of ornamental grass gently spilling over the neat edge of the well-kept lawn.

At the end the garden you are drawn towards some primulas growing in a secluded space. Here a visitor confides that he has so enjoyed his visit that he is now inspired to go home and get working on his own garden.

And that is what so often happens when visiting an NGS garden; not only are your spirits lifted and you gain that little bit of inspiration, but you have also contributed to raising much needed funds for all those marvellous caring charities that the Scheme supports.

Over two hundred people visited Bank House last Sunday, and combined with plant sales and refreshments an amazing £1,459 was raised. There is another opportunity to visit this charming garden this year as it will be open again on Sunday 26th August, or you can arrange a private group visit.

Your visit to an NGS garden really does help to change lives.

——-xxx——-

Great Thurlow Hall, wet, wet, wet.(6/18).

April 15, 2018April 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 9 Comments

Last Sunday was yet another wet, wet, wet day. Unable to work in my own garden and combined with Easter excess I decided that the only thing was to visit another garden. As I approached Great Thurlow Hall in Suffolk through a deluge of rain, signs of Spring were just visible on those manicured hedges around Newmarket

Too wet for anyone to stand at the gate to the Hall, the entrance to the garden was diverted through the church porch next door, left of the drive.

Crossing over the daffodil drive I headed through the thin green mossy-capped walls into the kitchen garden.

There a wide open space now represents the skill and toil of many years. The straight path ahead waits to burst into spring perennials and roses. Over to the left, a verdant plot is home to fruit trees, and to the right is the glasshouse and much industry.

Perhaps the produce is blessed by the ecclesiastical presence.

No loud signs here to tell you to keep out, just hazel sticks making an obvious statement.

The wall does not stretch the entire way round; one side is rather attractively the river bank.

The open iron gate leads onto the lawn below the house.

Euphorbias brighten the corner where benches are positioned,

then up the pretty steps and across the rose garden

to the terrace where you gain a view over the bridge to the gazebo beyond. Built in 1963 this was an anniversary gift from wife to husband of forty years; I smile at the thought that the best we could do was a watering can.

I walk cautiously along the wet York paving where the solid hedges of yew bring structure and interest,

and frame the view on such a murky day.

The formation of the pond is a perfect shape for the vista beyond and the despite the weather the fountain plays on.

Some chaps really don’t mind the weather.

Against the house is a tangle of wisteria, determinedly dormant it is hard to imagine how beautiful this will be in a few months time.

Not everything is dormant however; the red leaves of this cherry are trying their hardest.

The garden was created by the present owner’s grandfather during the last century. The wooded area, carpeted with snowdrops now in the green, is to the left of the house and screens the farmyard; the sounds of the cattle remind us that this is working farm. There is a variety of trees, some of which were planted by members of the family to commemorate the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.

Ha ha, we are at the end of the lawn,

where the slate ball seems to have gently rolled away from the house and come to rest.

Unlike Wordsworth, I have to confess that I am not a great fan of daffodils but it is on a day like today that they certainly play their part and look so attractive reflected in the water.

and of course there are so many varieties.

It is a watery landscape with the river Stour flowing through much of this garden.

The mown path makes one follow the course of the river and along the banks willows weep and bridges tempt you over to the other side,

and clumps of delicate primroses grow. Are they, in general particularly good this year?

It is very peaceful, but occasionally there can be heard the sound of rushing water.

The five bar gate is a reminder that we are in rural countryside surrounded by grazing pastures.

The path deviates off to take you around the lake. It is a haven for wildlife. On the island is a monument placed in memory of the present owner’s grandmother.

Walking back towards the house I find this bench in the most perfect position. This is a garden that has been opening for the NGS for 60 years. In time you will be able to sit and admire a Gingko biloba presented by George Plumptre in recognition of such longevity.

The drifts of daffodils are planted along the bank to flower in succession, one band is in flower, the next ready to come and close to the water they are still tightly in bud.

It is not just the plants that are reflected in the water.

Over 130 people visited today, not bad for such a wet day but private gardens like Great Thurlow Hall are popular and with years of opening will have acquired a considerable and loyal following. Opening again on the first weekend of June, I do recommend you should plan a visit, the children will love this watery space.

——-2018——-

5 Burbage Road, Herne Hill; a tiny touch of Spring.

March 17, 2018April 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 8 Comments

Following the book launch of the National Garden Scheme’s Gardens to Visit at the Royal Festival Hall last Thursday I decided to walk along the Thames, jump on a train at London Bridge and travel to North Dulwich. As I walked the 5 minutes down Half Moon Lane the sun came out and there was a feeling of Spring in my step.

The garden, situated behind an Edwardian-style house is just 150 ft x 40 ft, but from the terrace it looks so much bigger.

Rosemary and her husband have lived here for over thirty years, so the garden is well established. On the terrace there is every sort of container, pots, watering cans and old-fashioned sinks.

White Bergenia, blue rosemary and pink hellebore provide a welcome splash of Spring colour.

Rosemary is a botanical artist and there is definitely a touch of artistry in the garden. Positioned on the side wall, the iron stag’s head with antlers twisted into holly leaves has a good view.

Lawn, trees, topiary and euphorbias are combined to provide shape and form, a rich tapestry of green.

I take the path that runs down along the left side of the garden; in just the first few steps there is a delightful variety of shrubs.

The sunshine is pushing open the new leaves of this Photinia glabra, although not as red as the more commonly seen Photinia x fraseri ‘red robin’, it is a delightfully rounded evergreen.

A bee is really getting into this pretty camelia.

The squawk of a parakeet can be heard as it flies overhead, no doubt keeping his eye on the raised bird baths. The garden is cleverly divided, whilst remaining ‘open plan’. Divisions are not oppressive but subtle allowing the eye to see over or through. The lawn appears to squeeze through the line of rounded box balls,

and moves towards a fountain gently bubbling over the rim of the tall jar. Fritillaria gracefully grow from tubby twin pots placed at the corner of the paved surround.

Three mature apple trees grow in the centre of the garden; below this one is a daphne and the scent is a delight.

More box balls intermingle with shrubs and perennials, and the brick path behind brings you into a bricked area.

The mood changes with a medley of metallic containers; nothing is left unplanted. Even the tree in the centre is not as natural as you might think.

Opposite, the wave bench by Anthony Paul marks the gravel garden. Surrounded by wooden sleepers the idea of this dry area was inspired by the great Beth Chatto.

Up through the gravel grows this little gem; at first glance I think it is a crocus but on closer inspection I realise it is a tiny species tulip.

Carrying on down the path towards the end of the garden I look back at the skilfully pruned apple tree,

the prunings of which are used to line the woodbark path that leads across to the bug hotel at the end of the garden. The garden is open in three days time and Rosemary is concerned that it is nearly a month behind. She worries that some of the daffodils are tightly in bud,

but there are splashes of Spring, such as this Pulmonaria pushing up through the ivy,

and a pink patch of cyclamen.

Brilliant hellebores, pink, red and white are out all over the garden.

Plants are positively thriving here, the result of well worked soil, and there can be no doubt that compost bins are clearly an important ingredient in this garden.

In every inch of this garden there is so much variety, and returning along the opposite side of the garden is a cloud-pruned Phillyrea latifolia, its dark green glossy foliage so striking in the afternoon sun.

For a moment there is a strong scent of fox; it is a curious coincidence as from out of the border Charlie appears…

… he is in pursuit of the goose on the lawn.

This tender sculpture can’t bear to watch and ever so gently turns away.

Back just below the house there is a ‘plank of pots’ with the suggestion of an alpine collection.

Against the garage wall is a decoratively trained climbing rose, a sort of final swirl to this creative garden.

I am itching to return home to pick up my secateurs but before I leave I am amused at the idea that these happy plants have moved to the windowsill to gain a better view of this delightful garden.

The weather forecast for the weekend is not great but this should not prevent an enjoyable visit to this treasure of a garden. Keep calm and visit a garden.

——-2018——-

Austwick Hall; sculpture and snowdrops

March 12, 2018April 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 5 Comments

Staying on a short break near Settle in Yorkshire last week we found Austwick Hall perched above a pretty Dales village not far from the market town of Settle. Set in 13 acres the garden and woodland had just had its open day for the NGS during the snowdrop Festival.

Close by the house the garden has been terraced and the columnar row of Juniper ‘sky rocket’, the perfect alternative to the cypress seen all over Italy, gives that familiar Italian feel to the place.

The sculptures are contemporary and created, mostly, by local artists. The shapely ceramic vase raised on a wooden plinth was created by Ken Jaquiery who lives nearby. It sits elegantly on the front terrace.

We climb up the stone steps towards the solid sundial situated on the lawn. The recent snowfall has delayed the Spring tidy-up but it is really for the some 50 varieties of snowdrops that we have come.

Before climbing up the steep bank behind the garden we walk left along the path which leads through the log moon gate.

Placed on the lawn and looking back towards the house is the fun wooden ‘Wave bench’ by Tom Nicholson Smith.

The garden rises steeply up to a woodland area and colourful Cornus fill the lower ground.

Looking up, the elegant high backed bench seems to beckon us up the hill,

and on the ascending path we pause at another creation by Ken Jaquiery, ‘Wrapped Form’.

From the bench we can for a moment enjoy the view and look out over the garden towards the Yorkshire Dales where patches of snow still lie in the distant fields.

Behind us the the old deciduous beech tree, knobbly and gnarled, is a sculpture itself.

The majestic metal ‘Stag’ stands amongst snowdrops, its outline so realistic, it was created by Andrew Kay an award winning Cumbrian artist.

We are in the woodland now and have to decide which path to take;

we are drawn towards Sarah Smith’s ‘Inner Rhythm, Hidden form’, solid, it is carved from the local Yorkshire limestone.

The sun has appeared. The birdsong around us is glorious and out over the velvety mossy-covered stone wall we can glimpse the rhythm of the landscape beyond.

An ivy covered branch forms a natural archway. In some areas the woodland floor will shortly be a riot of wild daffodils followed by the bluebells that are quietly growing.

In a small dell is another sculpture by Sarah Smith, serene it catches the sunlight.

A moss-covered Giant’s Causeway, its soft green texture is accentuated by vertical bare trunks of the trees.

Nestling between the trees and neatly tucked up is ‘Reflection’ by Gavin Roweth.

It is a wonderful wood, filled with natural features; paths wind up and down and circuit an ancient rocky outcrop,

whilst the contemporary sculptures add a modern dimension; ‘Sentinel’ by David Pearson stands tall and square,

contrasted by just further on the smooth swirls of ‘Source’ by Susheila Jamieson.

It is not just the natural landscape that provide a variety of shapes, colours and textures; there are the sculptures that vary from abstract to the representational. The face is hidden but the gesture says it all; ‘Growing Pains’ is by Sarah Smith.

Sally Grant’s striking ‘Remembering Head’ angled and raised on a plinth,

like many of the pieces, is placed to be enjoyed from several directions.

The path descends, as it has done from time immemorial, and in my intent to follow

I nearly missed the ‘Baboon’ by Tony Evans perched up high.

The next is like two sculptures, the back so very feminine and the front a confusion of limbs. A small piece, it is ‘Crouching Figure’ by David Pearson,

Descending through the snowdrops, mossy rocks and trees,

we come to the final sculpture, Rob Watson’s ancient looking ‘Slate Form’.

A garden visit at this time of year is not about the best blooms in the borders; it is about the bare bones, the structure of nature’s design. At Austwick snowdrop and sculpture is a pleasing combination and the natural woodland with its variety and form provides the perfect space in which to display these creations. Everyone knows what a snowdrop is and as I duly purchased my Galanthus woronowii I was delighted to see a party of school children ascend the rugged path. What fun they will have and what better way to introduce the young to the pleasures of garden visiting.

Galanthus nivalis (poculiformis from an original watercolour by Nina Krauzewicz

——-2018——-

Houghton Hall Walled Garden; all wrapped up and waiting. (3/18)

March 5, 2018April 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 9 Comments

Last month Norfolk NGS was privileged to be invited by the Marquess of Cholmondeley to launch the 2018 booklet in the Stable Cafe at Houghton Hall. Nationally the NGS is the single biggest donor to Marie Curie and over delicious plates of sausage rolls and cake we listened to eloquent speakers from the charity who endorsed the very great need for us all to continue to open our gardens for the scheme.

There had been a light dusting of snow that morning and the stable block appeared to have been built from gingerbread rather than the local carstone. Set in an arcadian parkland the naturally white deer roam freely.

Houghton has been supporting the NGS since 2004, closed during the winter it was a great opportunity to gain an ‘out of season glimpse’ at what goes on in the old kitchen garden behind the closed garden gate.

It is seemingly the dormant period and head gardener Ollie was away on holiday but there was much industry behind the high walls.

At the entrance the wall flowers are biding their time, embedding the wheels of the cart into the gravel; it is a gentle reminder to us all that access for wheelchair users is not as easy as it might be. However here at Houghton they provide electric buggies.

I usually begin my visit at Houghton by turning left but today I headed right drawn by the clumps of large snowdrops, their flowers dropping like pearl earrings, elegantly white against the rich dark soil in the border.

Within these walls Lord Cholmondeley, helped in the early years by his then head gardener Paul Underwood and later by the designers Julian and Isabel Bannerman, has created a living memorial to his grandmother, Lady Sybil Cholmondeley.

230px-Sibyl_Sasson,_Countess_of_Rocksavage.jpg

Sybil Sassoon, Countess of Rocksavage by John Singer Sargent, oil on canvas, 1913

The five acre garden is situated just south west of the stables; the bold and beautiful architecture has a solid presence throughout the garden.

Divided into different gardens, hedges of beautifully kept beech and yew act as the inner walls. Peering through into the formal rose parterre the central statue is shrouded as protection from the Norfolk winter. Imagine the work in pruning those one hundred and fifty glorious roses.

The olive trees collectively stand by, waiting to be positioned for the summer visitors, their clean terracotta pots soak up the weak winter sun and some warmth from the greenhouse.

Inside there is much being propagated. Overlooked by the outrageous Strelitzia reginia, is it a wonder that this is called a Bird of Paradise, you might be forgiven for thinking it really is an exotic bird.

The double sided herbaceous border looks spectacular in the summer; this morning the clean lines, smooth chunky buttresses, razor neat edges, and the well-mucked brown earth are testament to the bold design and high standard of horticulture. The lawn is rolled out like a spotless carpet before me, little wonder I have been requested to keep off.

Ragged yew balls atop the clipped pillars,

the box is unclipped too, the idea to help prevent the dreaded blight.

Less susceptible to pathogens and pests is the Holm oak Quercus ilex, clipped into shapes reflecting the fine finials on the stable roof.

The long oak pergola covered with wisteria is being pruned today ready for that dramatic display in April and May. To the side are peony borders mixed with regale lilies, an idea the Bannermans reproduced from a visit to the grand chateau Vaux le Vicomte.

Pruning is cold work but it is coffee time and I am honoured to be invited to join the team in the sheds, secretly hidden behind the greenhouse. No boys shovelling coal here now, just a myriad of lagged pipes.

Even the area behind the sheds is a delight and although the Cholmondeley family have a private garden north of the house, it is through this gate that his Lordship enters the garden.

Another hidden area beyond the walls; is this what makes the garden a horticultural triumph? The tops of the fruit cage are showing above.

Rustic and strong, the netted structures house a selection of fruit bushes,

and a clematis softly clambers over the aged wood the wispy seed heads look lovely against the blue sky.

Green corridors separate the garden spaces. The long vista provides another view of the shrouded statue in the rose garden, and to the left

is the croquet lawn where the Houghton Cross has come to rest; made of slate it is a creation by Richard Long.

Stepping back into another space I find each compartment has different styles of planting, contrasting textures and a change of atmosphere.

I am surprised to find rabbit guards in here but gates can be left open, and we know it does not take long for our furry friends to find their way in. This is the productive area; on the ground are step-over apples,

trained against frames are apple tunnels,

and in the orchard are the old apple trees.

The thin layer of ice formed on the water surrounding the meteorite fountain shows it is a cold but clear morning,

and in the corners of this area, swirls of box encircle the outstretched arms of the lime.

This is the most southern path along which is placed the rustic summerhouse,

which has fine views back down the herbaceous border towards the greenhouse. How can that grass look so good in February?

Just when you think you have seen it all, through the horizontal branches the vertical trunks signify there is yet a further space;

with pleached limes and obelisk, I can feel that formal french influence again.

A muddle of ghost-white stems of rubus cockburnianus is the only disorder in such a perfectly ordered garden. In spite of it being winter there has been much to enjoy; the pleaching, the pruning, the twining and twisting, the structures and textures. The peace.

Returning to the entrance the inanimate ancient stone lying heavily on the ground appears today to have almost human features.

This of course is only one part of this beautiful estate. I leave slowly via the back drive and admire the natural drift of snowdrops, early signs of Spring and only a matter of time before the gate is open in time for Easter and we can explore the rest of the gardens and the park. Houghton Hall.

Garden visiting from the armchair; a trio of books, blogs, and Instagram. (2/18)

February 11, 2018April 15, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 9 Comments

During these past few weeks I have been rather housebound. So, content with a log fire and the fragrant sprigs of evergreen Sarcococca confusa Sweet Box cut from the border, I have been visiting gardens from the comfort of my armchair.

I was kindly given The Secret Gardens of East Anglia before Christmas in gratitude of completing my Ninety gardens. The author and the photographer, both very much experienced in their own fields, delight upon a variety of gardens large and small and demonstrate that gardens are just as much about people as they are about plants. The Foreward is written by Beth Chatto who says that although she enjoyed welcoming visitors to her garden in Essex she rarely had the time to get out and visit other gardens, a regret since ‘we can all learn from one another’. Barbara Segall entices us into each garden, writing about their history, the influences and style. Her eloquent words are complimented by the beautiful photography of Marcus Harper who captures the atmosphere, colour and sense of the garden and includes a portrait of the owners, which quite simply can say so much. It is heartbreaking to think that Harper did not live to see the book published; the more reason to get out and explore those that I have yet to visit.

I was most grateful to be recommended this second book by an NGS colleague and when I told my neighbour Rebecca, a nurse not a gardener, that I was reading Head Gardeners she could not understand why on earth I was interested in such a seemingly dull lot of people. Well, don’t for one minute think that is the case. Ambra Edwards reveals what a diverse and interesting group they are, having come in to gardening through completely mixed circumstances and inspired by very different influences. The photography is slightly confusing at first; one wonders for what reason Charlie Hopkinson has captured a certain pose, only for it then to become clear in the writing. Both writer and photographer expose the many angles of the modern Head Gardener, a truly multi-tasking individual. Indeed in the words of the author, they are the unsung heroes.

I have recently joined a local history group and this term we are concentrating on the Stuarts. So my third book The Renaissance Garden in England by Roy Strong was a re-read. Originally published in 1979 it is still the most authoritative book on the gardens of the Tudors and early Stuart period. Roy Strong addresses not the horticultural aspect of these gardens but rather the design and influences, describing them as a lost art form. The gardens are swept away, and apportioning the blame on the hand of Mr Brown, his dedication reads:

IN MEMORY OF ALL THOSE GARDENS DESTROYED BY CAPABILITY BROWN AND HIS SUCCESSORS

With no gardens to photograph, the book is illustrated with pictures, plans, diagrams, views and engravings which help to evoke the characters and concepts of the great formal gardens of Tudor and Stuart England

As well as writing my own blog I also follow a few others. It was The Anxious Gardener that really inspired me in the first place. David Marsden is a gardener for two large gardens in Sussex, neither of which receive visitors. Feeling they deserved a wider audience he started to write about them which he has done for several years. He has a huge following and I am not surprised because he writes amusingly and his photography is stunning. Read more here: https://theanxiousgardener.com/

Every Saturday morning I receive a garden history lesson from Dr. David Marsh who has been writing fascinating blogs for the Parks and Gardens UK for a few years. His subjects range from the ‘Sweet Pea and its king’, ‘the colour of Carrots’ and more recently posts on Humphry Repton. The piece on Derry and Toms roof garden in Kensington includes some marvellous videos clips. Click on the Parks and Gardens UK website: https://parksandgardensuk.wordpress.com/.

Things come in threes so my third blog is https://gardenvisitoruk.com/. This excellent site is very useful and ……….

was dreamed up to share a love of gardens of all sizes. When visiting a garden anyone can read about what the garden has to offer but what I hope to share is a ‘gardenadvisor’ report – personal findings and snippets that the official websites might not mention.

I was advised recently that if you are going to participate in Social Media, choose one and do it well. I have never really been keen on Facebook and I tweet very occasionally but this winter I have, along with many other gardeners discovered Instagram. It is a perfect medium for gardeners; quick and easy it is not so much about self-promotion but more about photography. I have my own site ‘the_garden_gate_is_open’ but I particularly enjoy these three:

‘jane_ann_walton‘ a keen and clever gardener who takes beautiful photographs.

‘tillyedith‘ a young mum who enjoys plants and lives in Italy.

james_todman who has his own business in Worcestershire specialising in hedging and topiary.

This winter has not been particularly cold but it seems to have been eternally long. I find it hard to believe that by this time last year I had already visited six gardens opening for the NGS as part of my 90 challenge. My little purchases of snowdrops have come into flower and I have to confess that I think I might becoming a teeny, weeny bit of a galanthophile.

So I am off to visit one of the many snowdrop gardens as part of the Snowdrop Festival https://www.ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden/snowdrop-gardens/

Sheringham Park

Repton and his business

January 28, 2018January 29, 2018 / thegardengateisopen / 3 Comments

It is the bicentenary of the death of Humphry Repton, he of the Red Book fame. There are many events organised and gardens gates opening throughout the year. This piece was so interesting that I am reblogging.

The Gardens Trust

HAPPY NEW YEAR! If you hadn’t already realised 2018 is Repton Year, when we’re commemorating the life and work of the last great landscape designer of the eighteenth century. Unlike the Festival for his ‘predecessor’ Capability Brown there is no great central nationally funded organization. Instead Celebrating Humphry Repton will be a collaborative effort, which, even though although it can’t match the funding of CB300, looks certain to match the enthusiasm and spread of interest nationally. County Gardens Trusts and other groups will be arranging events around the country throughout the year to celebrate Repton’s work. You can find a list – continually being updated – at this dedicated webpage on The Gardens Trust website. If you would like to get involved or receive updates email repton@thegardenstrust.org. The more people who join in, the better the celebration!

And of course the blog is going to play its small part. Repton has…

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The Garden Gate is Open

Garden visiting, looking at what is through the garden gate, especially those open for National Garden Scheme, with just an occasional foray here and there.

Year: 2018

Pehuenes in the Andes

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Horatio’s Garden at Stoke Mandeville

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Madingley Hall, gardens and health. (8/18)

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Bank House, well planted in the Fens (7/18)

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Great Thurlow Hall, wet, wet, wet.(6/18).

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5 Burbage Road, Herne Hill; a tiny touch of Spring.

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Austwick Hall; sculpture and snowdrops

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Houghton Hall Walled Garden; all wrapped up and waiting. (3/18)

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Garden visiting from the armchair; a trio of books, blogs, and Instagram. (2/18)

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Repton and his business

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