The garden was originally planted with bearded irises, but the heavy clay and run-off water were at odds with the needs of the irises, factors which were considered carefully in the new design.
Viewed by many as a meadow garden, the new design features grasses and plants who flourish in a wet meadow. A symmetrical layout of mown paths create structure, as does the surrounding rustic fencing. This too, is a garden that caters well for the estate’s wildlife with beds planted up with a mixture of plants and beneficial grasses such as Brachypodium sylvaticum and Deschampsia cespitosa, both of which are food plants of the ringlet butterfly’s caterpillar.
In May, tall spires of Iris sibirica are much admired. The simpler forms of Persicariabistorta, Stachys officianalis and Devil’s bit scabious follow, ensuring that this simplistic garden is decorated in butterflies, bees and other nectar loving invertebrates all Summer long. As it is sited on the woodland edge there is cross over of woodland species to this garden. Speckled wood, silver-washed fritillary and ringlet butterflies can be seen resting among the flowers and grasses.
