Show Gardens and Borders
With the greatest number of entries for gardens and borders, 2008 looks set to be a bumper year for inspiration and interest.
Visitors to the first big flower event of the season can journey through a magical storytelling woodland, a sanctuary of meditation, a grassy hollow and an urban fairytale, or simply glean ideas from a cleverly orchestrated water harvesting garden, a semi-wild Aberdeenshire plot or a Celtic haven steeped in history. There’s even a romantic marriage proposal garden for ladies brave enough to pop that vital leap year question!
The whole presentation has been dramatically enhanced for 2008 and promises to be a stunning and unique experience for all visitors. The ultimate Garden Party!
Borders without Gardens
A pioneering feature, that encourages students and new designers to make their first foray into the world of show garden design. Each border is a min size of 15m2, and the emphasis is on plantmanship and creativity, with designers choosing their own theme or concept. Small grants are made to exhibitors in this section towards their plant material. The borders are judged for RHS medals, and a special award is made to the ‘Best Exhibit’ in the Borders Without Gardens section.
Along The Border - Galanthus Garden Designers - Sue Deakin.
Based in ‘The Welsh Marches’ the border reflects the contrast and interdependence between the gentle mellow Herefordshire countryside and the more rugged and dramatic beauty of bordering Wales. A gentle curving “island” border, crossed by a meandering slate path, represents the River Wye. Includes a flowering Thorne Tree, spring orchard and undulating meadow of bluebells, foxgloves, and primulas.
The Hever Castle Blue Room - ‘Lets Party’ - Fresh View Garden and Landscape Design -
Susan Clark
A range of seasonal planting in shades of blue and purple with accents of limey green. A lively design reminiscent of a fireworks display.
The Wave - Foxglove Garden Design - Christine Hamilton
Inspired by the picture “The Great Wave” by Katsushika Hokusai. A personal impression of ‘The Wave’, with curving lines of dramatic and soft planting for spring interest. References to the sea and water are made by an area of pebbles, with the swell and froth of the surf represented in the planting.