Country Cottage Garden Design
Developed as part of a larger Garden Design Project, this Cottage Garden was designed and created alongside a pretty period property which was nearly the completion of a full renovation. The small area to the side of the cottage was to become a colourful cottage style space to be tended regularly, whilst the rear 'paddock' area would become a wilder space, with a more rural feel.
The existing wall and paved area were replaced to make for a more generous seating area, nestled against the house out of the wind. A mix of tired and overgrown shrubs, a large tree and a small gravelled seating area were removed and the area prepped for replanting. To offer privacy, an evergreen hedge was planted along the old post a rail fence which overtime will become a dense silvery screen and provide a decorative backdrop to the planting. The curved lawn now leads through to the paddock to the rear, providing an elegant green carpet through the Cottage Garden.
The line of the new wall gave the opportunity to plant a Lavender hedge which would benefit from the free draining aspect and the warmth of the wall. Lavender Hidcote was used to provide scented evergreen foliage and deep blue flowers which would be loved by the bees. The large overbearing tree was replaced with a smaller multi-stem Amelanchier tree, and several smaller evergreen shrubs planted to provide year-round structure. An abundance of perennials were then used to provide splashes of colour in shades of blue, violet, pink and white from Spring to Autumn and bulbs were added for seasonal interest. Six months on from planting and the garden is already a wash with colour. The bees are loving the perennials too.
Before Transformation
Before Transformation
Before Transformation
The Clients are really happy with the finished garden transformation…
"The cottage garden was re-designed in keeping with our wishes, and she has left us with a very lovely varied and private cottage garden.
Leaving us after a couple of years work, Bel has left us with very comprehensive care lists that will allow us to look after the plants and flowers which is invaluable to us novice gardeners. Thanks Bel :)"