Medium Sized Gardens

Wildlife Garden, Knebworth

The brief for this garden was to provide a tranquil and secluded, plant-filled space for a newly retired person to garden and enjoy the wildlife. There are two seating areas, one in the full shade for hotter days, the other with space for dining. The pond has a trickling water feature and is home to a shoal of minnows. It is already attracting a variety of wildlife, including frogs and dragonflies. Bird boxes, feeders and bird baths are being well used; there is also an insect hotel, bee hive and hedgehog hibernation box, hiding amongst the planting.

Wildlife Garden 1

Wildlife Garden 2

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Wildlife Garden 4

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Wildlife Garden 7

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Pergola Garden, Barnet

Two large sets of folding sliding doors, on this modern extension, demanded that the garden look attractive year round. The hard lines of the pergola and silver granite paving make a strong, permanent frame for the softer, more changeable planting. The dining area has a great feeling of enclosure without really being enclosed and metal trellis running across the garden behind the patio will disguise a washing line and trampoline.

Pergola Garden 1

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In Autumn the Aralia elata is a wonderful mixture of red, orange and yellow

Pergola Garden 7

Silver Granite stepping stones lead out from the house.

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The Sarcococca, positioned by the door, gives off a delicious scent during the winter.

Pergola Garden 9

The grasses shimmer in the evening light.

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Plantswoman's Garden

This hardworking garden belongs to Anne. The large planting beds are used to try out new plants and combinations. At the time of photographing it sizzles with reds, oranges and yellows as summer turns to autumn. The Koelreuteria paniculata tree is a spectacular, seasonally changing centerpiece having flowers followed by seedpods and beautiful autumn colour. On the flat roof Anne is also experimenting with green roof plants, pictured here in spring. If you want to know more about the green roof you can read about it in our blog.

Plantswoman's Garden 1

View from inside

Plantswoman's Garden 2

Seating amongst the planting

Plantswoman's Garden 3

Pebble path to house

Plantswoman's Garden 4

Koelreuteria paniculata

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Late summer flowers

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Swing Seat Garden

This garden is divided into two distinct spaces, separated by a wooden slatted screen and archway. The front section, visible from the house, is a relaxing flower filled space with a winding path, leading to a swing seat. Hidden beyond is a productive fruit and vegetable garden with an Alton Greenhouse and sleeper raised beds. It also has a large shed which was built from scratch by the landscapers. The path is made from Chelmer valley clay pavers which combine well with the cottage garden plants.