Planting Journal Christina Goodband
Contents 1.0 Sussex Prairie gardens
01
1.1 Introduction
02
1.2 Visual summary
06
1.3 Plant list
10
2.0 Private Garden of Anja & Piet Oudolf
16
2.1 Introduction
17
2.2 Visual summary
22
2.3 Plant list
25
3.0 Bolsover street, Sheffield 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Visual summary 3.3 Plant list 4.0 RHS Chatsworth show 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Visual summary 4.3 Plant list
30 31 35 40 46 47 49 53
Sussex Prairie Gardens
1
Introduction The Sussex Prairie gardens are located in Henfield, West Sussex. Paul and Pauline, who own the gardens were inspired by their time working in Luxembourg with Piet Oudolf. They have put their own British twist on the Dutch new wave perennial style of planting at Sussex Prairies. The eight acre site is surrounded by mature oak trees and consists of a series of interlocking acres of large planted borders in a naturalistic style. The planting style of the garden features drifts of a singular plant variety, planted in a free flowing style, which contrasts leaf forms, stems, stalks, flower shapes and textures. Colours are soft and muted and complement the natural landscape.
2
The cultivators that are found in the garden were chosen for the interest in their afterlife. The seed heads become structurally and architecturally dramatic when the flower has gone. I volunteered on a 4 week internship here during the month of July. This was invaluable experience, enabling me to understand the relationship between plant design and management. It also meant I could observe the herbaceous perennials, learning how they adapt and change in as little as one month.
Location plan
n ose Ch a are
d live We e for a her th! n mo ke Curves ma pear p a a the are it larger than is y reall
ges hed ue s u x ven l Ta nus a a i m For Carp d an
rie rai P l a ha orm g wit ut f n n I nti ayo pla ned l defi
Sheep fields!
3
The planting I chose this area because it was formerly a cutting garden and the variety of plants interested me. There were formal elements with organic fluid rhythms of perennial planting. It is relatively low maintenance during the summer months when the plants provide the most interest. However, it will all be burnt back in January therefore I could also argue its high maintenance. This promotes the plant regrowth for when the gardens re-open in June. “Restore, revive and revitalise”. These 3 words explain the reason why the entire Prairie gardens are burnt back during January.
Designer: Paul and Pauline McBride Age of planting: 10 years (original planting) Style: Naturalistic style represented through the free flowing bold groups of plants to create a high impact. Site conditions: Sunny and shady due to location and tree canopies. Relatively sheltered because of the adjacent mature Oaks and nearby barn providing screening. Soil: Rich (a thick mulch of green waste is applied annually) and clay soil
Successful points
- Consists mainly of perennials which are long lasting. - Strong repetition, for example Liatrus Spicata, creates unity. -The trees provide a range of functions, most importantly shade. This gives the perennials a variety to thrive more successfully. They also create privacy and frame the planting beyond, encouraging users to explore further. -There is a high aesthetic value. Contrast of height, colour and texture. The vibrant green grasses mean the colours aren’t overpowering. It creates immediate interest because it highlights the uniqueness of each and every plant.
Improvements
- The edges of the plant beds are exposed, resulting in high intensity labour. The lawn pathway is also high maintenance and unsuitable in wet weather. -Few ground covers or weavers, meaning weeds grow easily and are in of view the visitors. -Lacks form and architectural structure during the out of season months. (Winter and Spring). - In places there is a singular plants which I feel doesn’t achieve a wow factor. -Considering wider options, some argue its unordered because of self seeders such as the Euphorbia.
4
Planting plan
Side 12 Metres
Imperata cylindrica
Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Red Bicolour'
Salvia farinacea 'Victoria'
Echinacea purpurea ‘Green edge’
4 Metres
Atriplex hortensis
x
Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’
Liatris spicata alba
Sporobolus heterolepis
Chasmanthium latifolium
Echinacea purpurea ‘Sussex Prairie seedling’
Liquidambar styraciflua
Echinacea purpurea ‘Sussex Prairie seedling’
Liquidambar styraciflua x
Side
Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion' x
Sporobolus heterolepis
Echinacea purpurea ‘Green edge’
Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion'
1:200
Front
N
Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'
Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’
Back
5
Liatrus and Echinacea have both self-seeded
Contrast in shapes and textures
Bare soil edges
Side view (left) 6
Plants receive a lot of sunlight
Imperata planted throughout, this adds unification
Side view (Right) Photos taken throughout 7July
Approach to the central space
Front surrounding view
The perennials and trees in the planting frame the view out onto the gardens
Rear surrounding view 8
Unlike elsewhere in the gardens, the planting has interwoven, a change from its traditional block style.
Perrenials have self-seeded which makes the space look like a mix
Carpinus betulus provides a small formal avenue 9
Atriplex hortensis -Natural distribution: Native to Asia and Europe, found on beaches and salt marshes. -Size: 175x60cm (Ultimate size 180x70cm) -Habit: Erect form with lance-shaped, thin, deep red-purple leaves. -My comments: This plant self seeds very easily and I was told by a fellow gardener that it is not meant to be there. However, like a lot of plants at the Prairies it has been left to naturalise. In my opinion however, it did not look effective, because there was only one, and it was double the size of any other perennial. This made it look very out of place, and is probably better if removed.
Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’ -Size: 7x2m (Ultimate size 12x6m) -Habit: Ascending branching habit, narrow tear-drop shape. -My comments: The small avenue of Carpinus added a sense of formality when approaching the chosen planting area. This was the same species used through the main avenue of the garden. When I asked Paul why, he explained that the species is cheap to buy and maintaintherefore making it cost effective. I think it is well suited because it of its architectural form in the landscape, which is formal yet simple too.
10
Chasmanthium latifolium -Natural distribution: Native to the Eastern United States and northern Mexico. Occurs in shaded woodlands. -Size: 50x30cm (Ultimate size 100x60cm) -Habit: A robust, loose column of flowering stems softened by broad-bladed linear leaves. -My comments: This grass added a lush green colour and unusual bamboo-like foliage to the planting design. I felt it worked well planted along the border edge in a large grouping. This is because it provides a unique texture with its distinctive drooping seed-heads, for users to get close to and experience. However, it has spread forming a large clump, which did not really unify with the ‘mix’ look elsewhere in the bed.
Echinacea purpurea ‘Green edge’ -Size: 75x50cm(Ultimate size 100x60cm) -Habit: Strong upright, bushy clump growth habit. -My comments: Echinacea are one of Paul and Paulines favourite perennials, and popular in Prairie planting in general. Over the years the Echinacea have adapted to the soil and are now really thriving. It looked spectacular when contrasted against the Liatris and Sporobolus. Furthermore, the perennials have gradually interwoven to contribute to the naturalistic effect. The seed-heads provide a structural quality in Autumn, although the gardens are closed by that time. 11
Echinacea purpurea ‘Sussex Prairie seedling’ -Size: 85x40cm(Ultimate size 120x60cm) -Habit: Strong upright, bushy clump growth habit. -My comments: This perennial could be seen throughout the entire garden. By using the same perennial in separate plantings, it unify the garden as a whole. It provided striking colour, and I noticed there was a variation of pink gradients which worked well. I also noticed from working in the sale in the plant nursery that this perennial was very popular amongst visitors because of its colour and value to pollinators. This seedling survives the winter and self-seeds too.
Imperata cylindrica -Natural distribution: Native to east Asia, India, Australia, and eastern and southern Africa. -Size: 45x30cm (Ultimate size 50x30cm) -Habit: Dense clump of erect, upright flat leaves. -My comments: This grass has not fully expanded therefore there are gaps, which means constant weeding. This grass is also used in the centre sculpture near the planting, therefore providing unification. I noticed how plants were chosen of the same colour, but with different forms. For example, the grass reflected the same burgundy tones as Atriplex hortensis. 12
Liatris spicata ‘Alba’ -Size: 90x40cm(Ultimate size 100x45cm) -Habit: Clump forming, erect flower stem. -My comments: I love this perennial, most because of its unusual straight vertical structure which provides immediate interest in the planting design. Its particularly good for attracting butterflies and other pollinators, which I noticed were in abundance at Sussex Prairies. Plants have self-seeded but been left, to create a naturalised look. It also created a sequence of white tones punctuated throughout the area, along with the Echinacea purpurea ‘Green edge’.
Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’ -Size: Varies, 80x40cm (Ultimate size 100x45cm) -Habit: Clump forming, erect flower stem. -My comments: I felt the Liatris looked particularly good against the Echinceas, and contributed to the wave of summery tones. These are popular in Prairie style plantings because of their vertical accents in the front of the border. This contrasted against the more fluid perrenials such as the Panicum elegans ‘Frosted Explosion’. In some areas of the planting, it was hard to tell the perennial had been purposefully planted there.
13
Liquidambar styraciflua -Natural distribution: Native to eastern North America and tropical montane regions of Mexico and Central America. -Size: 7x4m (Ultimate size 15x5m) -Habit: Tall and slender habit with a narrow, conical crown. -My comments: I felt it was a good choice because of its slender habit and canopy, providing a variation of shade and sun underneath the trees. This means the perennials below can adapt to shade conditions. It provided a contrast from the formality of the hornbeam avenue, opening up into a circle of Liquidambar. Both the geometry of the spatial layout and the more naturalistic unintentional mix created an informal reflective space.
Panicum elegans ‘Frosted Explosion’ -Size: 55x20cm (Ultimate size 80x30cm) -Habit: A rounded upright habit. -My comments: I loved this grass because of its delicate fine texture. It reminded me of a firework, with the seeds cascading out at the top. It provided a soft and muted background to the bold tones of the Echinacea and Liatris inter-planted amongst it. Overall, a simple but visually effective grass, although a downside would be that it self seeds very easily. Paul mentioned that it wasn’t planted there, but it naturally regenerates all throughout the garden. So this requires maintenance, and I remember many up myself! 14
Sporobolus heterolepis -Natural distribution: Native to North America and southern Canada. -Size: 70x50cm(Ultimate size 100x90cm) -Habit: Clump-forming mounded habit with long and narrow arching leaves. -My comments: This grass has a unique fragrance which smells like coriander. It is very low-maintence and provides year-long interest, therefore I think its a simple, easy and reliable grass to choose. I love the fine texture and I think this compliments the bold structures of the Liatris and Echinacea punctuated within the grass itself.
Zinnia haageana ‘Aztec Red Bi-colour’ -Size: 30x20cm (Ultimate size 30x25cm) -Habit: Well branched habit, clump forming. -My comments: I felt the Zinnias made unusual colourful ground cover. Their informal habit made them an ideal choice for this planting area, in my opinion. Although I did feel the plant was too clustered and would have looked more visually effective when spread out. However, it reflects the style of Prairie planting, and looked naturalistic amongst its neighbours such as Imperata cylindrica. 15
The private garden of Anja & Piet Oudolf
16
Introduction In September I was fortunate enough to visit the private garden of Anja & Piet Oudolf in Hummelo. This is a village in the Dutch province of Gelderland, the Netherlands. Unfortunately, Piet was away on business but I was able to talk to his wife Anja. She provided me with a more in-depth and personal knowledge about my chosen planting design area, that I would not have been able to find elsewhere. I decided to choose a space known as ‘The Office garden’. The form of the office garden is notably much more simple than elsewhere in the garden. However, it appealed to me because of its simplicity, and it was one of the few areas where I noted improvements that could be made! Piet Oudolf is know for focusing primarily on structural characteristics, such as leaf or seed pod shape. Walking around the garden, it was easy to understand why Piet concentrates on the architectural form of the perennials he chooses. Visiting his own garden was probably the main highlight of my Erasmus study, because it was simply stunning, and I was able to take away so much knowledge and understanding from the visit.
Chosen area
17
Anja giving us an introduction!
Elsewhere in the gardens...
18
A stunning view of one of the approaches to the office garden
Now a sea of grasses lies where the former plant nursery used to be 19
Location plan The office
Chosen area
The old nursery
The old nursery
Entrance
20
Successful points
The planting
From studying an aerial view of the gardens it is clear that the planting was originally in blocks. The office garden was created in March 2012. However, over the period of around 5 years the planting has become more naturalistic and left to its own elements. The desired aim of this area was to be minimalistic and relatively low maintenance. After studying the planting dynamics in this scheme, I feel it has achieved this aim. This is because it has been kept relatively simple, yet it doesn’t look it. The perennials each compliment one another and provide interest from Autumn all the way into the next Summer.
- Dynamic vegetation which provides all year round seasonal interest due to the grass evergreens. -Very robust plants that are well suited to the site conditions. -The block planting has interwoven and contrasts well against the formal blunt edges of the adjacent office. - Little maintenance has meant self-seeders such as Daucus carota has been left. Some may argue this is an improvement but I think it provides an interesting seed head shape amongst the sea of grasses. -Grasses compliment almost every other perennial, providing a subtle soft background.
Improvements
- The Spodiopogon sibiricus is gradually taking control of the area and needs to be cut back. -There are gaps in the soil running adjacent to the paving. -Some may argue the scheme looks messy because of its unordered nature. - Bolder tones and gradient of colour would make the planting more visually aesthetically pleasing. Planted in 2012
Designer: Piet Oudolf Age of planting: 6 years Purpose: Minimalist design which provides all year round interest and high contrast of colour and structural elements between the plantings. Public as well as private space. Site conditions: Relatively sheltered because of the building adjacent to the planting. South facing therefore relatively sunny. Soil: Poor, loamy and sandy.
Inside Oudolfs office!
21
Geranium saguineum acts as a ground-cover
Spodiopogon sibiricus dominates the area
Front
Side
Rhus typhina
Dechampsia cetisposa ‘Goldtau’ has self-seeded
Side Side
Photos taken in mid September
22
Back
Plants soften the edges of the hard landscape.
Naturalistic edge
Front
The gaps offer a home to the self-sowing Stipa offneri.
Chosen area
Back
Grasses contrast in height and texture
Front 23
Planting plan
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Spodiopogon sibiricus
Front
Back Briza Media
Deschampsia cetisposa ´Goldtau´
Deschampsia cetisposa ´Goldtau´
Rhus typhina
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Red Thunder'
Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Alba' Sanguisorba officinalis 'Red Thunder'
x
Deschampsia cetisposa ´Goldtau´
N
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Red Thunder'
6 Metres
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Spodiopogon sibiricus
Daucus carota
Spodiopogon sibiricus
Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Alba'
Eryngium giganteum
Geranium saguineum
Deschampsia cetisposa ´Goldtau´
4 Metres N
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Geranium saguineum
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Side
24
Briza media -Natural distribution: Northern temperate regions of Eurasia & North Africa. -Size: 30x40cm (Ultimate size 60x50cm) -Habit: Upright stems of delicate heartshaped greenish-purple spikes. -My comments: There was only one Briza media in the whole planting. It is thought this is because it was originally an empty space to fill and the grass looks good on border edges. In my opinion, one plant was not enough and it looked random. However, in a few years, due to its creeping nature it will most likely look more effective, and create a contrast to the dominating Spodiopogon sibiricus.
Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Forester’ -Size: 130x60 approx. (Ultimate size 150x70cm) -Habit: Strong vertical flower stems. -My comments: This grass is very architectural and ideal for an informal screening, such as this. Calamgrostis is a good choice because of its long flowering season and its weatherproof, upright habit which resists strong winds. ‘Karl Forester’, is what Oudolf calls an ‘emergent’, and I think the grass is suitable choice as it stands tall and looks provides an effective backdrop against shorter plants, such as the Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Alba’. 25
Deschampsia cetisposa ´Goldtau’ -Size: 60x40cm (Ultimate size 90x60cm) -Habit: Low compact and clump forming with dark green narrow blade-like foliage. -My comments: I thought that the airy, almost feathery appearance of the grass provided a background for the more prominent, flowering perennials such as the Sanguisorba officinalis ‘Red Thunder’. The sharp red flower punctuates the grass, creating a starking contrast. Personally, I have always loved this grass because of its unique texture, and been inspired by Oudolf using it in his schemes. Furthermore, it provides all year round interest, and I noticed this quality throughout. “The pale colours and soft textures of the grasses effectively highlight the deeper colours and more defined forms of the flowers…” Piet Oudolf
Daucus carota -Natural distribution: Native to temperate regions of Europe and southwest Asia, dry grassland. -Size: 100x25cm (Ultimate size 120x50cm ) -Habit: Narrow branching hairy stems with alternating feathery leaves. -My comments: Daucus carota was only seen on the edge of the planting. It is thought this had self-seeded but was left there. The seed heads are tight, bristly balls, and this structure looks good, even in autumn when we visited. I felt the round seedheads looked particularly good contrasted against the narrow erect grass stems. It is simple, yet effective and therefore I would say it fulfils the aim of the design. 26
Eryngium giganteum -Natural distribution: Native to the Caucasus and moist, well-drained soils of Iran. -Size: 60x25cm (Ultimate size 90x60cm) -Habit: A ruff of spiky bracts surrounding a prominent , cone-like centre of tiny flowers. -My comments: I am fond of Eryngium because of its unique spiny habit. But I felt an improvement would have been to plant it in bold clumps, so it contrasts against the grasses. I think the cone-like flower heads make a bold statement and did look particularly effective along this edge. This is a biennial but will usually self-seed so will expand over time, if not removed.
Geranium saguineum -Natural distribution: Native to much of Europe and south west Asia. Found in deciduous forests, woodland margins and arid grasslands. -Size: 60x30cm approx. (Ultimate size 60x30cm) -Habit: Low and spreading with a fairly open structure. -My comments: I love the more naturalistic look and appreciated the way Piet Oudolf has allowed plants such as the Geranium to weave into the brick path. This plant has self-seeded but it covers the edges that would otherwise be soil, or another self-seeder, therefore I think it works well functionally. It grows at the base of the larger shrubs without covering them, which I like. When in flower, it will look even better. 27
Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Alba’ -Size: 60x60cm (Ultimate size 1.2x1.2m) -Habit: Clump forming habit with long narrow flowering stems. -My comments: I think it has formed an effective ground cover plant. However, the plant will not be performing at its best because the soil conditions are not right for this perennial. Therefore in the future it will not achieve full growth, as it naturally prefers damp areas. Other than this however, I felt the long delicate white flower-heads looked incredible against the golden grasses. I think it provides more of a visual quality as oppose to function.
Sanguisorba officinalis ‘Red Thunder’ -Size: 130x 45cm (Ultimate size 150x60cm) -Habit: A low thick mound of deeply divided, leaves produces short, wiry branched stems topped with tight maroon flowers. -My comments: This perennial is known for being one of Piet Oudolph’s favourites. I think it combines very well amongst the sea of grasses in this planting design, although it has self-seeded. The red flowers top the slender upright stems, creating a stark contrast against the golden hue of grasses. It would benefit from being cut down a little because it was starting to look unusually tall in relation with its companion plants in the scheme. 28
Spodiopogon sibiricus -Natural distribution: Native to central China; north-eastern Siberia as well as the grassy mountains of Japan and Korea. -Size: 1.3x1.2m (Ultimate size 1.5x1.2m) -Habit: Bright green leaves are held nearly horizontally on upright stems .It has a bamboo-like quality. -My comments: The Spodiopogon sibiricus needs to be cut back and controlled because it is forming very large clumps and dominating the entire planting. I think this plant has been left to its own devices but the other perennials would benefit if its cut back. However, it creates bold architectural patterns, a robustness that is lacked elsewhere and provides a burgundy colour in Autumn.
Rhus typhina -Natural distribution: Native to eastern North America. Found in woodland edges, roadsides, embankments and stream/swamp margins. -Size: 2.5x1.5m approx. (Ultimate size 5x6m) -Habit: A spreading tree with an open, loose habit. It produces shiny large panicles of small white flowers in late summer. -My comments: Rhus typhina is scattered amongst the grasses,meaning I was not able to get a good photo. Its scarlet-orange leaves look highly effective in autumn, contrasting against the pale grasses. I think this is why Oudolf chose this species. However, this small tree suckers freely and selfseeds, so it requires some maintenance. 29
Bolsover street entrance Sheffield
30
Introduction This planting design is located west from the city centre, on Bolsover street entrance. This area is different to the rest I have chosen, in several ways. The reason I chose it is because I felt it is a relatively poor example, compared to the other chosen planting designs. Therefore it is a way to learn, for future reference. However, it is also important to be analytical and understand that this area is on a very small scale compared to my other examples. Therefore, this can limit the design ambition. This is definitely a planting that looks its best in the summer months, in my opinion. This is because the gaps are covered by emerging robust perennials which offer a lush green vibrancy as well as food for pollinators. However, I do not believe it is as successful as other examples in Sheffield, such as the new Leavygreave road planting scheme. Some plants seem to have struggled to adapt to the site conditions, which becomes apparent from the level of growth and leaf colours.
I am unaware exactly why a woodland understorey mix was chosen, other than to suit the shady site conditions. However, the naturalistic woodland theme connects to the upper part of the very nearby Ponderosa park, creating coherency and a wider link. Several plants on the list I never saw. This was mainly the bulbs, but this could of been due to the snow we received in Spring. Because I was not in Sheffield for 6 months, it was hard to identify a few plants but luckily I was able to capture every seasonal change.
31
Location plan Surrounded by man-made surface
Ad
jac
en
tt
oa
bu s
yr oa
d
Very few people actually walk on this path
Planting area looking sparse and mundane
The main user route
This was all former car-parking spaces.
Taken in February 32
Successful points
-More contrasting forms and colours to liven up a mundane and highly concreted surrounding area. -Groundcovers that spread quickly and in abundance would benefit the scheme.
-It is small part of Grant Associates collaboration with The University of Sheffield’s to create a unified, sustainable and green campus.The images below show how it connects to the wider network. -It was previously car parking spaces, so this adds both a functional and aesthetic element. -The area provides a variation of seasonal interest for users to appreciate. -Provides greenery around the arts tower area which is in abundance of concrete. -Over time, there should be a good level of established ground cover, preventing any weeds.
Designer: Grant Associates , in collaboration with UoS. Age of planting: 1.5 years Style: Informal mixed herbaceous planting which was formerly car parking spaces. Woodland understorey mix provides contrasting vegetation levels ( Assumed aim - however this has not been achieved to date). Site conditions: Very shaded and therefore quite damp. Open and exposed to the elements, relatively windy. Soil: Relatively moist,permeable and nutrient rich soil.
Improvements -Immediate interest is needed - more plants per
m2? There are so many gaps in the planting,especially during Winter and surprisingly, Spring. -Another improvement would have been to make the planting area larger to be more ambitious.
33
Planting plan Drifts and blocks Understorey woodland mix -Asplenium scolopendrium -Luzula sylvatica -Polystichum aculeatum -Dryopteris filix-mas
13 Metres
Luzula sylvatica
Scattered mix Seasonal interest perrenials -Anthriscus sylvestris -Aquilegia vulgaris -Digitalis pupurea -Geranium pratense -Helleborus orientalis ‘Queen of the Night’ -Monarda didyma
Dryopteris filix-mas
Amelanchier canadensis
a lvatic
la sy
Luzu
12 Metres
Luzula sylvatica Polystichum aculeatum
Amelanchier canadensis
Dryopteris filix-mas
Luzula sylvatica
Luzula sylvatica
4 Metres
Amelanchier canadensis N
34
Trees look healthy and provide small shade canopies
The scheme is visually its strongest in the Summer months
Taken in late July 35
Plants look particularly healthy and relatively well-spread here, in comparison to other seasons
Taken in December 36
Low maintenance in winter Robust evergreens are the only emergents
Taken in February 37
Empty bare spaces where a carpet of bulbs should be emerging by now!
The only bulbs that appeared are the Narcissus
Taken in April 38
Contrast June - February Judged on the photos I have taken of the planting scheme throughout the year, in my opinion it looks the most visually pleasing in summer. As this is on a university campus, very few people will actually be able to appreciate it in summer, because there are very few students or staff around. Therefore I think this is a slight design flaw in this sense.
39
Amelanchier canadensis -Natural distribution: Native to eastern North America in Canada and in the United States from Maine south to Alabama. Typically growing at altitudes from sea level up to 200m. -Size: 3.5x3m (Ultimate size 6x4m) -Habit: Medium sized suckering shrub or small tree with tall erect stems. Oval-rounded, this is a multi-stem specimen. -My comments: I think this tree was a good choice because it is one of the first native trees to bloom each spring. I felt it looked effective even when not in bloom, because it provided much needed vertical structural interest. It also framed the view of However, my concern is that the Amelanchier were slightly too mature when planted. This means they will take a long time to grow, as oppose to a very young specimen.
Anthriscus sylvestris -Natural distribution: Native to Europe, western Asia and north-western Africa. Typically found in ditches, meadows, wedges of hedgerows and woodland. -Size: 80x15cm (Ultimate size 90x60cm) -Habit: An upright, clump-forming biennial or short-lived perennial. -My comments: This is a good choice to encourage invertebrates into the planting area. Unfortunately I did not get to see it flower and did not get a good photo because I took this because I was out in Sweden. However, it adds a tall, thin and erect shape amongst the woodland mix which was very much needed. 40
Asplenium scolopendrium -Natural distribution: Common species in Europe, rare and scattered in North America. Typically occurs at sites on or near dolomite. Examples include sink-holes, cave entrances, wooded limestone ravines and steep north-facing slopes. -Size: 20x30cm (Ultimate size 50x50cm) -Habit: Tufted, irregular cluster with a clump forming habit. -My comments: I think this is an excellent choice for a woodland under-storey mix. It provides a contrasting form in relation to other plants such as the Polystichum aculeatum. It has glossy, wavy fronds, which unfurl in spring - adding a lushness to the planting mix. However they are too sparsely planted, resulting in a lot of empty gaps.
Digitalis purpurea -Natural distribution: It is native in woodlands to most of Europe and has gradually become naturalised in parts of North America. -Size: 1.2x0.3m (Ultimate size 2x0.6m) -Habit: Rosette-forming, hairy, biennials or short-lived perennials -My comments: This provides a somewhat striking colour and an architectural form to the planing scheme. Although unfortunately I did not get to see it flower at the time of taking this photo. It can grow up to 2m, which adds a much needed height variation between the short woodland ground-covers and the relatively small tree, Amelanchier canadensis. 41
Dryopteris filix-mas -Natural distribution: Native to most of Europe, Asia, and North America. It can be found in the under storey of woodlands, but also damp shady places on hedge-banks, rocks, and screes. -Size: 0.8x0.5m (Ultimate size 1.5x1m) -Habit: Robust and clumping-forming, with fronds that are long and arching. -My comments: I particularly like this fern because it creates an almost skeletal feel amongst the planting. It creates juxtaposition through its robustness yet also graceful habit. It also fulfils the overall brief as it grows relatively well in the conditions and reflects traditional woodland under-storeys.
Geranium pratense -Natural distribution: It is native to most of Europe and Asia. -Size: 70x40cm (Ultimate size 90x60cm) -Habit: A short bushy habit producing a gradient of flowering colours. -My comments: This is one of the most showy of all wild meadow plants which I think is why it was chosen. Overtime, it should will establish and spread well, which I think is something that this planting is lacking. It will also hopefully attract bees to the site in summer, because of its long flowering season. I think it looks particularly good interwoven with other low spreading ground-covers. 42
Helleborus orientalis ‘Queen of the Night’ -Size: 25x25cm (Ultimate size 50x50cm) -Habit: A clump-forming, evergreen perennial. -My comments: Although a relatively unusual perennial, I think its an ideal choice because it provides deep purple flowers at a time in winter when there is very little colour. However, in this mix it is surrounded by more robust and dominating plants. As evident in the photo, it is hard to actually see the dark purple flowers it is renowned for producing. I think they should have been planted at a higher quantity per m2. This is because it is sparsely planted which reduces their impact.
Luzula sylvatica -Natural distribution: Native to Europe and southwest Asia. It can be found on stream banks and well-drained, open woodland, as well as in open ground. -Size: 60x60cm (Ultimate size 1x1.5m) -Habit: A evergreen perennial with a tufted habit, forming a loose clump of narrow, glossy leaves. -My comments: This provides a good contribution to the structural planting mix, because of its striking heads of white flowers in early spring. I do not particularly think it works in this scheme, because of the way it was planted. It was planted in confusing drifts with no order. However, over time it will spread and expand. 43
Monarda didyma -Natural distribution: Native to eastern North America. Commonly found along stream banks, thickets, and ditches. -Size: 60x30cm (Ultimate size 90x45cm) -Habit: Clump-forming habit with distinctive flower heads made up of curving tubeshaped flowers. -My comments: Much to my surprise I learnt that this is an aromatic herb. However, it is a wise choice because it is relatively low maintenance and perfectly suits the site conditions. I felt it added much needed summer colour, with the ferns providing a subtle backdrop for the bold flower heads.
Narcissus asturiensis -Natural distribution: Native to the mountains of North Portugal and Spain. -Size: 10x10cm (Ultimate size 15x15cm) -Habit: Clump-forming and erect habit. -My comments: I think this is a great addition to the planting scheme as it brings a bright bloom of colour when little else was in flower. However, the unusual snow periods throughout March most probably had an impact on the planting, meaning some plants did not emerge at all. The Narcissus would have looked more effective along with other spring bulbs, such as Hyacinthoides non-scripta, to complete the woodland theme. 44
Polystichum aculeatum -Natural distribution: Native to Europe, except northern Scandinavia. It typically grows on steep slopes in woodlands, moist rock surfaces and in crevices. -Size: 70x50cm (Ultimate size 1x1m) -Habit: An evergreen fern with glossy fronds and a strong upright habit. -My comments: This another excellent native perennial which is hardy and reliable. Its growth still seems to be in the early days. When it matures, I think it will look spectacular and providing a glossy green, all year round interest. Ferns are a good choice for this area and thrive because of its dark and shaded conditions.
45
RHS Chatsworth show, Derbyshire
46
Introduction In June 2017 I volunteered at RHS Chatsworth show. I chose this site because not only did I learn a lot about it whilst volunteering there, but it is also focused around a contemporary issue. The theme was ‘Gardening in a Changing Climate’ and ultimately this shift in the world of planting will shape planting designers and landscape architects future approaches. The garden featured a conventional garden of today built alongside a garden set 100 years in the future. Working at the show, I was able to gage the general public opinion. I was surprised at the amount of people who asked what material the pathway was, and also older people tended to comment they preferred the traditional approach, which is unsurprising. This planting design is completely different to my other choices, in that is a temporary construction. This means its designed to look its best during the 5 days the show is open to the public. I chose the front space of the Damp Meadow area in the future floral border zone. The garden featured 3 other zones; a contemporary border, a contemporary patio and a future patio. It was difficult to identify some plants, but I did my best.
47
Successful points
Improvements
-Contrast in textural and height qualities of plants, i.e. the Phormium ‘Evening Glow’ against the Geranium. -Focusing on plants which are resilient and can cope with extremes of weather whilst also being functional - current and future problems. -Design coherency throughout the floral border, in terms of tones of colours used. -Fulfils the overall intentions of the brief innovative resilient planting. -Provided a relatively low vegetation border, allowing sight-lines across to the canopy seating area and glass green-houses.
- Some soil gaps in the planting, however I am unaware if this was the intention. -Some plants got slightly damaged by the heavy rainfall during a few show days. However, this is not an aspect which can be controlled. -Members of the public commented it looks a little messy, they felt it was unordered and looked ‘messy’! - Perhaps more solitary robust perennials to add the immediate wow factor. -Some plants did not arrive and this was slightly apparent in a few areas.
Designer: Andy Clayden, Dr Ross Cameron and RHS Scientist Eleanor Webster. Age of planting: Temporary (5 day show) Style: Naturalistic wildflower mix which is resilient and can cope with extremes of weather whilst being functional, providing shade, capturing storm water and filtering water throughout the garden. Site conditions: Quite open with little shade cover resulting in lots of sunlight. Soil: Damp wildflower border turf in my small chosen area. 48
49
Chosen area
50
Location plan
Future (2100) patio
Future (2100) Floral border
Chosen area
Contemporary border
51
Contemporary patio
Planting plan
The Damp Meadow Wilflower border turf
Random mix of the following: -Achillea filipendulina ‘Cloth of Gold’ -Geranium ‘Rozanne’ -Silene flos-cuculi -Phormium ‘Evening Glow’ -Geranium sanguineum -Primula vialii -Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ -Festuca glauca -Stipa gigantea -Uncinia rubra -Primula pulverulenta
1.5 Metre
The Damp Meadow mix
N
3 Metres
52
Achillea filipendulina ‘Cloth of Gold’ -Size: 25x70cm approx (Ultimate size 1.2x0.5m) -Habit: Flat, plate-like yellow flowers on tall narrow stems -My comments: I volunteered at the show on a day when it was open to the public and unfortunately the Achillea had not yet flowered. I felt it looked a little out of place, but it is a wildflower mix so its meant to appear naturalistic as it would in its natural habitat. There were very few Achilleas, however it did add a height dimension, being one of the tallest plants in the chosen design area.
Geranium ‘Rozanne’ -Habit: A compact and mounding habit -Size: 35x25cm (Ultimate size 1x1m) -My comments: Although not on the original planting list, I think this is an ideal choice. It provides a good groudcover and looks effective in floral borders. I think it also plays a part in showing the public what can be achieved as opposed to the traditional planting beds with lots of open soil. I am not usually a fan of Geraniums but it certainly looked good and healthy in this scheme. I feel they look scraggy in winter, but of course this design only lasted for 5 days in the summer, so it was ideal.
53
Silene flos-cuculi -Natural distribution: Native to Europe, found along roads and in wet meadows and pastures. -Habit: A columnar and upright habit -Size: 15x20cm (Ultimate size 1x0.5m) -My comments: This is a native British wild-flower commonly found in wet meadows. Therefore I think Lychnis perfectly matches the brief and site conditions. It weaves throughout the planting, creating a perfectly naturalistic feel. The delicate pink flowers add spots of colour amongst the green tones, and I think overall it is a good choice. However, as seen in the photos some of the Silenes were surrounded by empty soil.
Phormium ‘Evening Glow’ -Size: 45x25cm (Ultimate size 1x1.2cm) -Habit: A clump-forming, upright perennial. -My comments: I think this is an ideal choice as it punctuates the planting, leaving a dramatic contrasting colour. This looks particularly effective amongst the abundance sea of green perennials which surround the Phormium. It also provides contrast in height and shape with its very exotic architectural foliage, making it stand out from the planting design. I also think the quantity was perfect, because it looked balanced.
54
Geranium saguineum -Natural distribution: Native to Europe and temperate Asia. Found in grassland, sand dunes and open woodland on calcareous soils. -Size:20x20cm (Ultimate size 20x30cm) -Habit: A dense, clump forming perennial with spreading rhizomes. -My comments: This pink Geranium looked effective against its companions, particularly complimenting the Primula vialii and Silene flos-cuculi. It also created a design coherence through the repetition of tones of pink. It provided an adequate ground-covering effect. For these reasons I think it fulfilled the brief aims overall, both visually and functionally.
Primula vialii -Natural distribution: Native to regions of Yunnan and Szechwan in China. It prefers to grow in wet meadows and near water in valleys. -Size: 50x20cm (Ultimate size 50x50cm) -Habit: Clump-forming with slender, upright stems. -My comments: This was a very popular plant amongst the public at the flower show. It features red buds with lilac-purple flowers. This provides a dramatic colour and texture combination amongst the more muted soft tones and shapes. It also creates coherency by reflecting other pinks and purples in the scheme. 55
Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ -Size: 20x30cm (Ultimate size 50x50cm) -Habit: A compact tuft of arching stems bearing linear leaves. -My comments: This would have looked much more visually effective if it was planted in a larger quantity or a bigger sized pot supply. Over time, I think this would provide good groundcover and height definition. It works well in a border such as this functionally. But visually I believe more Hakonechloa were needed or other perennials in order to create clumps and cover any soil gaps.
Festuca glauca -Natural distribution: Native to Southeast and Southern Europe. Grows among sandstone rocks and in limestone pastures -Size: 20x12cm (Ultimate size 30x30cm) -Habit: Neat, clump forming habit -My comments: I did not feel the Festuca offered a lot to the planting scheme, other than something to “fill in the gaps”. It did offer a nice blue tinge, but this looked slightly odd against the bare soil. An improvement might have been to buy it at a more mature age and size, but I know this not so easy when purchasing from nurseries. It may have looked better en mass as a ground cover, however then again that is not the plating style. 56
Stipa gigantea -Natural distribution: Native to southern Europe, found in grasslands or savannah habitats. -Size: 70x20cm (Ultimate size 2.5x1m) -Habit: A clump forming and tufted habit -My comments: This is a young Stipa gigantea. It adds a new level of height into the scheme, with its arching narrow leaves. I think it would have benefited from a taller, flowering Stipa. They are a gentle and graceful grass but I do not think it was served justice in this scheme. It is a shame that not all of the perennials were out in flower. This would have contributed a lot more, aesthetically in terms of texture and colour contrasts.
Uncinia rubra -Natural distribution: Native to New Zealand, in areas ranging from native forest to shrub-land. -Size: 25x 20cm(Ultimate size 50x50cm) -Habit: An evergreen tufted perennials with narrowly linear leaves. -My comments: I am fond of this sedge for its stark coppery red colour and habit. I think it made a good addition to the planting design and added a vivid effect amongst the pale greens. This contrasted well and looked good when the sun came out too. It complimented the Phormium ‘Evening Glow’, notably a much smaller perennial.
57
Primula pulverulenta -Natural distribution: Native to damp habitats in China. -Size: 15x15cm (Ultimate size 1x0.6m) -Habit: Clump forming with upright stems. -My comments: Unfortunately this Primula was not flowering at the time of the exhibition. It was small and dainty, and without its tall stems featuring striking pink flower-heads it did not look very effective. Again, I think the problem is that it was ordered from a nursery as a young plant, therefore was not well-established yet. However, it should thrive in moist soils such as this. But it is important to note that plants will not have had the usual time to adapt to their conditions, and are more for the visual purpose is RHS shows.
58