Head Gardener’s Notes – Summer

Once again the seasons leap on and summer is upon us with an array of growth and colour. The Jungle punches with Echiums flowering, Myrtles blooming and Puyas as exotic as they look putting 8ft spikes of splendour into the skyline. On top of this the new boardwalk gives differing views from previous seasons and allows access to the Lost Valley!

Work has continued in the Ravine and this will shortly reopen with its rebuilt water feature and pond. The path has all been re-laid and offers a much smoother access. The sound of trickling and cascading water once again in this area is welcome by all. The main planting will be done this Autumn but please look in to see how we progress.

The poppies and wild flowers in West Lawn have been tremendous and so fit into the landscape. Our sowing of another lost crop ‘Flax’ or Linaria is coming along strongly in Valentines, this will give us another splash of colour on the landscape with its pale blue flowers….I can’t wait!

After what seemed a slow start this season the Productive Garden soon catches up as the weather improves. Peas and beans in abundance and so many heritage varieties to talk of. The Flower Garden is really beginning to show off at present with all the annuals and perennial rows doing their thing. Sweet Peas tantalising and bringing memories of the past. The peaches are just about ready and the smell of fresh peaches oozes from the glasshouse.

I love summer!

Iain Davies
Head of Gardens and Estate.