Wednesday 4 August 2021

Growing With Enthusiasm

After a fabulous Sunday at the Rococo Gardens, Denise asked us what route we were taking back to Norfolk on the Monday. She suggested we drove north, and stopped off at Hidcote, a NT property not far away - and she and Kevin would come in their car, and we could spend the morning together in the gardens there [a genius idea IMHO, the more I could learn about sowing and growing the better] Alongside Sissinghurst, Hidcote is considered one of the most influential 20th-century gardens in Britain. This beautiful Arts & Crafts masterpiece was created from 1907 onwards by the talented American horticulturist, Lawrence Johnston. Lots of info here

The weather was glorious. I took more pictures this time. I am definitely keen on a Smoke Bush [cotinus] D has kindly offered to take a cutting from hers for me. I am tempted too by the tall purple agapanthus. I already have some Hidcote lavender. I've decided I like beds of multicoloured flowers - I'm not stylish enough for a single colour scheme like Vita Sackville West's White Garden 

The gardens were stunning - and around the edge were vistas of trees and cornfields. So much to see, and to learn [do check out descriptions on the NT website] The gardens were incredibly busy - some sections had covid safe one-way systems in place. However there was even a quiet corner- The Silent Space, somewhere to stop and to reflect.
 At noon we said our goodbyes, and drove off home in different directions. I have so much more confidence now about my garden, and I am so grateful for my SIL's infinite patience. 


I have treated myself to this book from the RHS - which is almost as good as a one-to-one session with an expert! Simple instructions, good photography - and helpful month-by-month advice.

Laurence Johnston took 40 years to develop Hidcote into the treasure it is today. I shall just do what I can with my little plot, to the best of my abilities. Gardening is definitely one of my 2021 adventures

9 comments:

  1. Looks like another lovely place to visit. Have fun with your gardening adventure! :)

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  2. Gardening is an ongoing learning process, and I'm still discovering things. If you have Agapanthus they are best in a pot, as they roam. They prefer to be kept tightly togther.

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    1. My SIL told me that - and I had forgotten till you just said it.I must make a note in my new book to remind me!

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  3. CBC bought be that book for Christmas! The gardens are gorgeous! I look forward to seeing your garden develop!

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    1. If CBC thinks it's good, I take that as a great recommendation

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  4. Hidcote is fabulous, we went a couple of weeks ago. I love to garden and it is trial and error, I cram my plants in (less weeding) and we are in the process of making raised beds. Gill

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    1. Anything that reduces weeding appeals to me. Raised beds are planned for next year - I'm still debating what to use for the construction

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  5. What a lovely place to visit and gain inspiration for your own garden. Our son is the gardener in the family, his city front garden is delightful. Our garden is surrounded by wilderness trying to creep back in to where it has been tamed! It's an ongoing battle but we have the sweetest wild flowers around throughout the year, so no complaints.

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    1. Beautiful gardens in the middle of cities are inspirational - but country gardens surrounded by natural beauty are just as awesome

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