Daphne odora f.alba
3 great plants for winter scent
In the depths of winter when there’s not much else going on in the garden scented plants really come into their own. One of the top plants for winter fragrance…
A garden designer abroad – highlights from Oz
January is pretty much the only time of year anyone working full-time in horticulture or garden design can go on holiday for a reasonable amount of time - well, with…
Formal topiary at Great Fosters
Get creative with topiary
I have to admit I do like a bit of topiary. There’s nothing quite like a clipped hedge or box ball to add structure to a garden. And the beauty…
How to deer-proof your garden
Aaah, aren’t deer cute?! Well not if they’re munching your prize roses they’re not! I have to admit that my heart sinks a little when new clients tell me they…
Winter wonderlands – gardens to visit
At this time of year it’s very tempting to stay inside, keep warm and banish all thoughts of garden visiting until April. But if you do that you’ll really be…
Ponds are a really valuable way to attract wildlife into any garden
6 simple steps to creating a wildlife garden
I’m currently working with a pre-school nursery group to create a wildlife garden for the children to enjoy and learn from. Along with a living willow tunnel, a cosy seating…
Black Dome, charred oak
David Nash at Kew Gardens
On a recent visit to Kew Gardens in London (primarily to check out the Xstrata Treetop Walkway and catch some autumn colour), I was really pleased to also get to…
How to plan a successful kitchen garden
If you’re going to be growing fruit and vegetables on an annual basis, then it’s really good practice to plan your plot in advance with a view to rotating your…
Wildflower meadows – simply lovely
I don’t know what it is about wildflower meadows that are so appealing, but I for one love them! Maybe it’s just the gorgeous mix of simple flowers or the…