http://www.thegardener.co.za I 19A
fter covering two RHS flower shows in the past few weeks,
Chatsworth and Hampton Court Palace, I’ve identified a
common thread running through all the RHS shows this
year, and that is ‘nature and nurture’ using reclaimed and recycled
elements and sustainable planting schemes. Most of the gardens
have been designed to attract wildlife, and with ‘wellness’ being
the new buzz word, living walls that are both ornamental and
edible are also a highlight at the shows. Chelsea is certainly the
biggest show stopper with designers going all out to impress the
judges and the crowds.
In the August issue I showcased the Gold Winners of the Show
Gardens and the new category ‘Space to Grow’ gardens. In our spring
issue I’d like to feature the quirky Artisan Gardens that won Gold.A PALACE play
garden in the woods
Colourful performers amidst the verdant forest hues included
varieties of alliums, astrantias, geums, salvia, foxgloves, lupins,
buddleja, purple and bearded irises and verbascum. Not only were
flowers, foliage and grasses intensively planted, but vegetable and
herbs were also seamlessly woven into the themes.
Before I move on, I feel I must include the Back to Nature Garden,
which was co-designed by The Duchess of Cambridge and landscape
architects Davies and White. A perfect example of a natural garden
using branches from the forest to create play areas including a
gorgeous tree house, logs for children to crawl through, a waterfall
and a wooden ramp to help the children cross the meandering
stream. It was amazing to see what can be achieved in a tiny space
with careful and creative thought. Literally, I felt as if I’d stepped into
the Delamere Forest in Cheshire, it was so realistically planted.
A large string ball makes an eye-catching swing.A tree house creates opportunities for outdoor
play with families and friends.The log creates a play area for the children.