196 Downs Road

About 196 Downs Road

This is the fourth opening for this garden, which has a long, narrow plot divided into spaces with different planting schemes. Enter via a side gate and walk into an array of established shrubs and perennials in mixed borders with fruit trees, clematis and roses. A variety of plants have been homegrown from seed and cuttings including shrubs, Delphiniums, Penstemon and Agapanthus.

When the owner moved in 24 years ago, debris and weeds dominated the garden. Over the years the owner has enjoyed developing and establishing shape and a planting scheme which includes a mixture of colours for most of the year. Although the established theme remains unaltered, the garden appears different as each year different plants take an opportunity to shine. This is a no dig garden which allows natural planting and seeds to flourish.

There is also an eclectic mixture of upcycled containers, wooden boxes, pots and other items from charity shops collected over the years. These are planted with a mixture of perennials and annuals that give a burst of colour.

In addition, planting has been considered and areas set aside in order to encourage wildlife into the garden. There has been success with many birds nesting in the hedges, two territorial robins have made homes at each end of the garden and hedgehogs’ debris is evidence they are living in the garden. an exciting discovery in 2020 was when a nest with baby hedgehogs was seen.

Since the last opening there have been several changes, the box has suffered box tree moth damage. Despite attempts to control it many of the old and established box plants have had to be removed. Other changes include a Rowan tree dying, removal of trees and hedging from neighbours gardens and a new fence in 2022. This has meant some consideration and thought has been needed in regard to planning and new planting in certain areas. A common problem gardeners are only too aware of as one area of the garden flourishes and other areas struggle. Each year a new challenge!
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