Garden Visits and other Excursions Spring 2024

I would like to catch up with some of the other trips we have made this year, in between the shows. Welford Park Back at the beginning of February, Helen and I visited Welford Park west of Newbury.  It is somewhere I have wanted to go for a long time, ...(more below)
June 22, 2024
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I would like to catch up with some of the other trips we have made this year, in between the shows.

Welford Park

Back at the beginning of February, Helen and I visited Welford Park west of Newbury.  It is somewhere I have wanted to go for a long time, but I never seem to get my act in gear this early in the year.  This year, we saw a weather forecast for a rare bright sunny day, and made a spur of the moment decision to set off the next morning.

Welford Park will be familiar to millions of BBC viewers as the home of the Bake-Off marquee, but in early spring it is transformed.

Galanthus nivalis

The beech woodlands alongside the twining channels of the river Lambourn are carpeted with snowdrops, in places forming a solid sheet of white.

Wild snowdrops blooming in a woodland forest during early spring, showcasing alpine plants and native flora in a natural outdoor setting.
A lush woodland scene featuring a carpet of blooming snowdrops in a peaceful forest environment, highlighting early spring flowering plants and natural beauty.
Bluebell woodland flowers in forest during spring, natural natural woodland scene for alpine gardening enthusiasts, woodland bluebells in bloom under tall trees in a peaceful forest setting, perfect for Alpine Garden Society members and lovers of woodland garden plants, showcasing natural beauty and botanical diversity in UK gardens and nature reserves.
Snowdrops flowering by a stream, indicative of early spring in alpine gardens, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and collectors.
White snowdrop flowers blooming in a dense forest during springtime forest walk in the UK, representing early spring floral display.

Returning along the river from the main snowdrop walk, there are hazel catkins swinging from the bushes, and high overhead, great balls of mistletoe.

Serene river with historic building and church spire surrounded by trees and greenery in the countryside, representing the tranquil landscape of the Alpine Garden Society location.
Willow catkins in early spring, symbolising new growth in alpine gardening, with a clear blue sky background.
Fungal growth on tree branches, showing clusters of mistletoe, in a natural outdoor setting during winter with clear blue sky.
2. Bright blue sky background with climbing tree and lush green mistletoe growths, showcasing natural alpine plant habitats and biodiversity.

Eranthis hiemalis

Approaching the house, the lawns glow with a flood of spring aconites.  Simply glorious in the spring sunshine.

Bright spring garden with snowdrops and yellow crocuses under mature trees, part of the Alpine Garden Society’s outdoor displays in a peaceful park setting in the UK.
Vibrant spring garden with colourful flower beds and lush green grass, part of the Alpine Garden Society's botanical displays.
Bright yellow alpine flowers blooming across a mountain slope, showcasing the beauty of high-altitude gardening and plant diversity for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Yellow flowering plants carpet a hillside in a lush alpine garden setting, showcasing vibrant colours and diverse flora typical of mountain environments.
Yellow alpine flowers blooming in a lush garden setting, showcasing vibrant plant diversity and natural beauty, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Viburnum x bodnantense

The gardens near the house hold a small collection of snowdrop cultivars, and a number of winter-flowering shrubs including this Viburnum.

Viburnum with pink and white blossoms in full bloom, showcasing vibrant floral clusters.

Salix gracilistyla (?)

At this time of year, it is the courtyard near the house which is home to a marquee.  Here you can sit out of the wind, and enjoy an excellent lunch, before returning up the drive to the carpark.  On one side of the drive this lovely willow was just coming out.

Pink fuzzy pussy willow catkins on a garden branch in early spring, showcasing vibrant, soft floral buds ideal for alpine gardening and seasonal blooms.
Pink fuzzy willow catkins on a slender grey branch, early spring bloom, alpine garden scene, delicate floral details, nature photography for alpine plants enthusiasts, vibrant pink blossoms for garden enthusiasts.
Pink furry buds on a willow branch, alpine garden society, alpine plants, early spring bloom, nature photography, gardening enthusiasts, botanical beauty, wildflowers, outdoor garden, natural landscape, botanical photography, flowering shrubs, garden enthusiasts, plant lovers, alpine flora relevance.

On the other side of the drive, snowdrops mingled with aconites, serving a reminder of the glories of the park.

White snowdrops and yellow crocuses blooming in a woodland garden during spring, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection, showcasing early flowering alpine plants in a natural setting.
Snowdrops and winter aconites blooming on the woodland floor in early spring at an alpine garden.
Alt text: Snowdrop and crocus flowers blooming on forest floor, early spring alpine garden scene, vibrant yellow and white blossoms in natural woodland setting.

Wildside

February, March and most of April went past in a daze of shows.  But towards the end of April we made the long trip to visit Keith Wiley at Wildside.  We had intended to go earlier, but torrential rain postponed our trip, and when we did go, the rain came too.

Acer palmatum ‘Corallinum’

At least wet conditions bring out the colour in the leaves, and Acer palmatum ‘Corallinum’ looked magnificent in the gentle drizzle.

Vibrant autumn foliage in an alpine garden featuring colourful Japanese maples and ornamental trees, showcasing diverse seasonal plant displays.

Claytonia perfoliata

Underneath the magnolias and maples, the ground was pink with Claytonia perfoliata.  This is an attractive edible annual from the American North-west, mingling with the blue of bluebells and forget-me-nots.  But it is becoming an invasive weed in parts of Dartmoor.

Wildflower meadow in a woodland setting, showcasing native plants and biodiversity, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and naturalist gardens.
Vibrant alpine garden featuring colourful wildflowers, lush greenery, and trees, ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden design inspiration.

Orchis mascula

This is a time of year when I have never visited the garden before.  I was delighted to find spikes of Early Purple Orchids (Orchis mascula) in the orchard, together with a few late Erythroniums.

Vibrant purple flowers blooming amidst lush green foliage in an alpine garden setting, showcasing diverse hardy plants and garden design.
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Violet orchid flower in lush green garden with trees and grass in the background, part of alpine plants collection.

Water garden

The bank rolling down to the water garden was ablaze with pink azaleas; beneath, a striking clump of the South African Gladiolus tristis.  The waterside vegetation had been cut down neatly over winter, and was just starting to sprout again.

Pink azalea bushes blooming in a lush garden setting, showcasing vibrant alpine plants and natural landscape typical of alpine gardening and conservation.
Tranquil garden pond surrounded by lush greenery and plants in a botanical garden setting.
White flowering rock garden plant, perfect for alpine gardening and small garden spaces, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun, ideal for creating colourful alpine garden displays.
Wildflower garden with a pond and lush greenery at Alpine Garden Society, featuring vibrant spring blooms and natural landscapes.
Alpine Garden Society garden with lush greenery, colourful flowering plants, pond, and picturesque wooden gazebo, showcasing a tranquil alpine environment for garden enthusiasts.

Magnolia ‘Lois’

Overhead on the far side of the pools, I photographed the lovely yellow flowers of Magnolia ‘Lois’.

Magnolia tree with pale yellow blossoms in spring, illustrating alpine garden flora, ideal for garden enthusiasts interested in flowering plants and UK gardening tips.

Acer shirasawanum

As usual, we walked back along the stream, past the overhanging Malus transitoria, and Acer shirasawanum underplanted with a matching golden Hosta.

Lush alpine garden with diverse plants, small stream, garden benches, and trees, showcasing the beauty of alpine flora and serene landscape design for outdoor plant enthusiasts.
Tranquil garden stream with lush greenery, vibrant plants, and a peaceful setting, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts seeking inspiration in natural landscapes.
Lush garden scene with a gently flowing stream surrounded by vibrant greenery, trees, and flowering plants, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden lovers.
Lush garden scene with vibrant green foliage, a tranquil pond, and a meandering footpath, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants and garden design.
Lush alpine garden with colorful trees and diverse plants on a hillside, wooden footbridge, and modern building in the background, showcasing the beauty of mountain flora and landscape design for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Deutzia purpurascens hybrid

Back up in the courtyard garden, several shrubs were flowering, including this Deutzia, an incandescent orange Azalea mollis, and the beautiful Magnolia laevifolia ‘Gails Favourite’.  Whenever I photograph the Magnolia, other visitors remark to me on the scent, but somehow this is one of the plants I cannot smell.

Vibrant flowering shrub in a lush garden setting, ideal for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts, showcasing native and cultivated plants; perfect for Alpine Garden Society members.
Pink and white Himalayan balsam flowers in full bloom, surrounded by lush green foliage, suitable for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts.
Bright orange azaleas blooming in an alpine garden, showcasing vibrant colours and lush foliage, ideal for gardeners and plant enthusiasts interested in azaleas and alpine plant species.

Epimedium

Underneath the shrubs, the little jewels of Epimedium flowers sparkled in the rain.

Violet-purple alpine flowers with dark green and purple leaves, thriving in a rocky garden environment, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Vivid orange and yellow flowers blooming among lush green and brown foliage, showcasing alpine plants at the Alpine Garden Society.

Ros Wiley tribute garden

The newest area of the garden, still under development, is a tribute to Keith’s late wife and our dear friend Ros Wiley.  Keith has created an abandoned quarry, complete with stream and waterfall.

Lush alpine garden with diverse greenery, native plants, and vibrant foliage showcasing the beauty of mountain flora. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Ancient olive trees and lush greenery in a Mediterranean garden, showcasing planting schemes and garden design ideas for sustainable outdoor spaces.
Alpine garden showcasing diverse low-altitude plants and rocky landscape features, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and succulent plant lovers.
Flowing water waterfall in rocky alpine garden setting with lush green plants and natural landscape.

South African bulbs

In the sand beds at the bottom of the quarry, Keith has planted all manner of South African bulbs, including a striking Gladiolus tristis hybrid, and a Moraea from the Homeria group (possibly Homeria ochroleuca).

Unique alpine flowers in a rocky garden setting, showcasing the beauty of mountain flora for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Yellow Alpine Primula flowers in rocky garden setting, showcasing alpine gardening and plant diversity. Ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Yellow alpine lily flower with water droplets after rain, close-up in alpine garden setting, vibrant yellow blooms, native to mountainous regions, perfect for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.

Euphorbia x martinii

Also here, I found a very striking Euphorbia, which I think might be Euphorbia x martinii.  But the rain was getting heavier, and it was time to retire for tea.

Wild alpine plants near a small stream in a garden setting, showcasing hardy flora suitable for alpine gardening and climate.
Yellow-flowered alpine plant near pond in a rocky garden landscape.
Vibrant yellow alpine plant with tiny flowers, thriving in rocky garden landscape, perfect for alpine gardening and rock gardens.

Dancing Ledge

The following day, on our return from Wildside, we decided to stop off at Dancing Ledge on the Isle of Purbeck.  We were hoping to have outrun the rain which was enveloping the South West.

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)

The path from the car park down to the sea was bordered with a Blackthorn hedge, smothered in flower. Strangely this is something I have never photographed.

Vibrant flowering shrub blooming in spring with white blossoms, ideal for alpine and rock garden cultivation, promoting biodiversity and eco-friendly gardening at Alpine Garden Society events.
Delicate white blossom flowers on alpine shrub, perfect for mountain gardens and rockeries. A beautiful example of alpine plant growth, ideal for enthusiasts and garden decorators.
Delicate white blossom of an alpine shrub, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and rock garden collection enthusiasts.

We crossed the meadows, past the windswept trees, down to the slopes overlooking the sea.

Wild deciduous tree on a rural country track with lush green fields under a partly cloudy sky, representing natural landscapes and outdoor hiking opportunities.
Alpine garden society coastal landscape with green grass and cliffs near the ocean.

Ophrys sphegodes

Here we found what we were looking for.  These sunny limestone slopes are home to thousands of Early Spider Orchids.  With the early season this year, these had been in flower for nearly a month; it was getting tricky to find specimens in perfect condition.

Psycopsis barbata orchids blooming in the wild on a grassy hillside, part of alpine plant collections from the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing rare and unique alpine flora for enthusiasts and botanists.
Ophrys apifera, bee orchid, wildflower, blooming in grass, natural habitat, UK native plant, alpine garden plant, flowering wildflower, unique pollination plant, botanical illustration, conservation plant, pollinator attraction.
Ophrys speculum orchid, also known as the mirror orchid, growing in a natural habitat with green grass background, showcasing its distinctive beauty and unique flower structure.
Violet Star Orchid blossom showing intricate flower details and natural habitat, part of the Alpine Garden Society plant collections, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and orchid lovers.
Verdadeira abelha-orelha (Ophrys apifera), wild orchid species found in Alpine gardens, showcasing unique flower structure and biodiversity. Ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and wildflower conservation.

Anacamptis morio

Among the spider orchids, we found occasional spikes of Green-veined Orchids.

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Violet orchids blooming in grassy meadow, alpine wildflowers at the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing rare orchids in natural habitat, ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and wildflower botanists.

Primula veris

Other flowers included patches of cowslips, and chalk milkwort (Polygala calcarea).

Wild alpine flowers blooming in a green hillside meadow, part of an exotic mountain garden landscape. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Violet wildflowers growing among green grass in alpine meadow, close-up of vibrant blue and purple alpine plants, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Bright yellow alpine primula flowers growing in grassy terrain, showcasing vibrant blooms typical of mountain garden plants.
Vibrant yellow wildflowers blooming along rugged coastal cliffs with green grass and dramatic sea views under a cloudy sky, showcasing natural beauty and diverse alpine planting environments.
Vivid coastal landscape with dramatic cliffs and green pastures overlooking the ocean, showcasing the beauty of the British seaside countryside.

Sheringham Park

Before long, in early May, we were staying with our son Robin in Norwich, preparing to go to the East Anglia show.  Normally, we would make a visit to the lovely Old Vicarage garden at East Ruston; this time, on a hot day, we chose the cooler woodland walks of Sheringham Park.  The new leaves on the trees were lovely and fresh, and the azaleas were in full flower.

Vibrant green maple tree canopy against bright blue sky, showcasing lush foliage.
Vibrant yellow azaleas blooming in a lush garden setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardening and rhododendron cultivation. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Alpine garden with colourful flowering shrubs, including yellow and orange azaleas, showcasing alpine gardening and ornamental plants in a lush garden landscape.
Rhododendron bushes with vibrant yellow and orange blooms in a lush garden setting, showcasing Alpine garden plants suitable for cool climates and perfect for enthusiasts of alpine gardening.
Vibrant orange azaleas blooming in a lush garden setting, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and garden designers.
Yellow flowering shrub in a lush green woodland setting, showcasing alpine garden plants, ideal for garden enthusiasts and alpine plant collectors.
Bright yellow rhododendron flowers blooming in a lush garden with dense green foliage and trees, showcasing alpine gardening beauty.
Yellow flowering rhododendron in sunlight, alpine garden society plant, vibrant blooms, lush greenery, garden gardening, nature photography, flowering shrub, outdoor garden, botanical beauty, plant enthusiasts, horticulture, springtime flora, garden design relevance: high.
Golden yellow rhododendron flowers in full bloom in an alpine garden setting.
Golden yellow alpine garden azalea blossoms in full flower with vibrant green foliage in the background.

Rhododendron ramparts

As we penetrated further into the wood, it became wilder, with vast banks of Rhododendron.  Lookouts perched high in the canopy.  It was rather sinister, reminding me of the woods of Gramarye in Dornford Yates’ Anthony Lyveden, which become a dangerous obsession for the hero.

Wildflower and lush green woodland path in the Alps during spring, ideal for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Lush woodland trail in alpine garden, surrounded by diverse plants and trees, ideal for nature walks, horticulture enthusiasts, and alpine plant lovers.
Vibrant blooming rhododendrons in an alpine garden, showcasing colourful, hardy plants suited to mountainous environments. Perfect for rock gardens and high-altitude gardening enthusiasts.
Vibrant alpine garden with colourful rhododendrons and tall pine trees in a lush green landscape, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden lovers focusing on hardy mountain plants.
Vibrant pink and white rhododendron flowers blooming in an alpine garden, showcasing diverse plant varieties and lush foliage. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and RHS garden displays.
Rhododendron flowering shrub with vibrant pink blossoms in a lush garden setting, perfect for alpine and woodland gardens.
Dying willow, tree, branch, wood, landscape, forest, nature, sky, outdoor, wilderness, environment, greenery, flora, scenic, wilderness trail, woodland path, garden, natural, summer, day.
Gorgeous garden archway with lush greenery and blooming pink flowers, perfect for promoting alpine gardening and plant enthusiast interests.

Davidia involucrata

As we proceeded, we found more exotic trees and shrubs; first Menziesia (now Rhododendron), and then a Handkerchief Tree (Davidia involucrata).

Bright green leaves and white flowers in a lush, natural setting celebrating the beauty of alpine plants and gardens.
White Asian spice plant with green leaves in a garden setting.

Halesia carolina

Nearby, I marvelled at a huge and magnificent Snowdrop Tree (Halesia carolina).

Bright green foliage with clusters of white flowers on a tree, showcasing a spring or early summer bloom in an alpine garden setting.
Vibrant blossom tree with white flowers and lush green leaves, set against a clear blue sky, representing the beauty of alpine gardens and woodland flora.
White flowering shrub in a lush garden with green leaves, showcasing alpine plants and botanical beauty at the Alpine Garden Society. Ideal for plant enthusiasts and garden lovers.
Delphinium white flowers blooming on a garden shrub, surrounded by green leaves, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Delicate white flowers blooming on a slender branch against a backdrop of vibrant green leaves and a clear blue sky.

The new foliage of the native woodland trees, beeches and horse chestnuts, was just as beautiful in the late spring sunshine.

Delicate green leaves illuminated by sunlight in a lush forest setting, showcasing native plant species and vibrant foliage.
Vibrant green leaves hanging from a branch in a lush woodland setting.
Fresh green leaves illuminated by sunlight, showcasing lush canopy and vibrant foliage at Alpine Garden Society. Perfect for plant enthusiasts and garden lovers.
Broadleaf-tree-canopy-architecture-in-sunny-park-alpine-garden-society.
Young tree with bright green leaves illuminated by sunlight, natural outdoor shot, lush foliage, springtime growth at an alpine garden, vibrant greenery, nature photography.
Lush green maple leaves illuminated by sunlight in a dense forest, showcasing vibrant foliage and natural beauty, ideal for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts.

Eventually, we reached a viewpoint where we could see the sea – the north coast of Norfolk.

Alpine Garden Society garden featuring lush, diverse alpine plants, shrubs, and small trees set in a scenic natural landscape with a backdrop of green woodland and a distant view of the horizon.
Alpine garden society landscape with lush greenery and distant ocean view in Cornwall, UK, showcasing nature, plant conservation, and alpine flora for gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Vibrant pink rhododendron flowers blooming in a lush garden with a scenic view of rolling hills and the sea in the background, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Walking back up a different path, our route passed ancient oak trees.

Majestic large oak tree with lush green foliage in a natural setting, symbolising strength and longevity, within an alpine garden environment.
Ancient deciduous tree with lush green foliage in a garden during daytime.

Beneath the oaks, rhododendrons in all colours lined the path.

Vibrant pink rhododendron bush in full bloom under a clear blue sky, surrounded by lush green foliage, showcasing beautiful flowering shrub in a garden setting.
Vivid pink rhododendron flower in full bloom with dark green foliage in the background.
Rhododendron bushes in a lush garden setting with a woodland background, showcasing vibrant spring blooms and greenery, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and outdoor landscape design.
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Vibrant red rhododendron shrub in a lush garden setting.
Vivid red azalea flowers blooming in an alpine garden, showcasing vibrant flora and lush greenery under bright sunlight for alpine gardening and horticulture enthusiasts.
Pink flowering rhododendron tree in lush botanical garden, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Pink rhododendron flowers in full bloom during springtime at the alpine garden society in the UK.
Pink rhododendron flowers blooming in a garden, showcasing vibrant colours and lush foliage, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and gardening enthusiasts.
Pink rhododendron in full bloom at Alpine Garden Society outdoor garden, showcasing vibrant flowers and lush foliage.
Rhododendron in full bloom with pink and white flowers among lush green foliage in a garden setting.
Rhododendron flowers in a lush garden, showcasing vibrant purple blooms with green foliage, perfect for alpine gardening and nature enthusiasts.

Dorothy Clive Garden

At the end of May, on the way to the East Cheshire show, we stopped at the Dorothy Clive Garden in Shropshire.  There are two main areas to the garden – a abandoned quarry created in the 1930s, and planted as a woodland garden under mature oaks, and a lower area planted with roses and herbaceous perennials.

Quarry Garden

Foxgloves guarded the entrance to the quarry garden.

Vibrant purple and pink foxgloves growing along a garden pathway with lush greenery and flowering shrubs, showcasing alpine garden plant varieties and gardening beauty.

Crinodendron hookerianum

Sadly, the rhododendrons and azaleas were well past their best, but we did find a big Crinodendron absolutely covered in flowers.

Rhododendron buds and blossoms in a lush alpine garden, showcasing vibrant red flowers perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Red flowering plant with bell-shaped blossoms, set against lush green foliage, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden collections.

Waterfall

On one side of the quarry, there is an attractive waterfall feature, built in 1990 to commemorate fifty years of garden development.

Lush garden with a waterfall and a stream, surrounded by vibrant green foliage and flowering plants, creating a peaceful and natural sanctuary.
Vibrant garden with lush green foliage and a cascading waterfall, perfect for alpine plants and garden enthusiasts.
Alpine Garden Society lush garden waterfall surrounded by vibrant green foliage and rocks, ideal for alpine plant display and garden design inspiration.

At the top of the waterfall, a bronze stag lurks under the maples.

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Rustic bronze stag sculpture amidst lush greenery in Alpine Garden Society landscape setting.
Vivid green Japanese maple tree in lush garden setting with surrounding foliage and yellow iris flowers at the base.
Lush green and purple Japanese maple trees with vibrant foliage in a garden setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants and garden landscape design.

All around the garden, whenever a tree has been felled, the stump has been carved.  Here are an owl, and a badger.

Weathered wooden owl sculpture on tree stump in lush garden with dense foliage and walking path.
Woodland garden sculpture of a mouse carved from a tree trunk surrounded by purple and green plants in a lush garden setting.
Hand-carved wooden bear sculpture in lush garden setting, surrounded by vibrant greenery and small white flowers, showcasing outdoor art at the Alpine Garden Society.

Claytonia perfoliata

Underfoot, the woodland is pink with the Claytonia we saw at Wildside.

Vivid purple foxglove flowers in a lush alpine garden setting, surrounded by greenery and diverse foliage, showcasing the beauty of Alpine Garden Society plant collections.
Violet clematis flowers in a lush garden setting, showcasing vibrant blooms and green foliage, perfect for garden enthusiasts interested in flowering plants and alpine gardening.

From the top of the bank behind the quarry, there are views back into the garden, and out into the surrounding landscape.

Lush alpine garden with diverse flowering plants and vibrant greenery, showcasing the beauty of alpine flora and garden design for enthusiasts and visitors.
Bench overlooking a lush green landscape under trees with rolling hills in the distance.

Sun Lovers

Returning down the garden, the banks surrounding the tea room were full of colour, mainly plants which love a hot sunny position: Cistus, Phlomis, tree lupins, rock roses, Euphorbia, and in one corner Tropaeolum polyphyllum.

Bursting white flowers on a lush alpine shrub in a garden setting, ideal for cultivating hardy plants; a beautiful addition to alpine gardens and garden enthusiasts.
Vivid yellow flowering plant with lush green foliage, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing hardy and vibrant plants cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society.
Vibrant yellow flowering plant with lush green textured leaves, ideal for alpine gardens, showcasing the beauty of alpine flora and perfect for enthusiasts of cultivated alpine environments.
Vicia villosa, also known as hairy vetch, flowering plant with yellow and white blossoms along garden pathway, ideal for alpine gardening and sustainable plant cultivation.
Bright yellow Alpine flowers blooming in a garden bed, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Bright yellow and purple flowering plants at the Alpine Garden Society garden, showcasing a vibrant display of seasonal blooms and native alpine flora in a lush garden setting.
Bright yellow flowering alpine plants in lush garden setting, showcasing diverse hardy plants for alpine gardening enthusiasts. Perfect for garden design, plant collections, and sustainable horticulture.
Bright yellow flowers with green foliage, showcasing alpine garden plants ideal for mountain gardens and rockeries.
Bright yellow flowering plant with lush green foliage, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries. Perfect for plant enthusiasts and garden designers focusing on hardy, ornamental alpine plants.

Peonies

Below the tea room, the herbaceous borders start, rich and fertile, full of roses, peonies and much more.

Lush alpine garden with colourful flowering plants, diverse greenery, and gravel pathways, perfect for rock gardening and showcasing alpine flora. Ideal for garden enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Vibrant alpine garden with colourful flowering plants including foxgloves and roses, showcasing lush greenery and well-maintained blooms, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
A lush garden scene featuring vibrant flowering shrubs and greenery, ideal for alpine and mountain garden enthusiasts. Perfect for Alpine Garden Society members and alpine plant lovers.
Beautiful pink and white alpine roses blooming amidst lush green foliage, highlighting the vibrant colours and delicate petals characteristic of alpine garden plants.
Alpine Garden Society white flower among green foliage, alpine plant with lush leaves and delicate bloom, outdoor garden setting, nature photography for plant enthusiasts and alpine gardening.
Vivid pink peonies in full bloom with lush green foliage, perfect for alpine gardens and flower enthusiasts.
Vivid pink peonies in full bloom amidst lush green foliage and white flowering ground cover, showcasing vibrant garden floral displays.
Pink and white peonies with lush green foliage in a botanical garden; vibrant flowers blooming in a serene alpine garden setting.
Pink and yellow peony flowers in a lush garden setting, showcasing alpine garden flora. Perfect for peony enthusiasts and alpine plant lovers.
Peony flower in full bloom surrounded by lush green foliage, showcasing vibrant garden peonies. Perfect for alpine and garden society flower displays.
White peony flower with yellow stamens and green leaves, part of alpine garden showcased by the Alpine Garden Society.

Astrantia

Always a temptation to the photographer.

Vivid pink Astrantia flowers blooming among lush green foliage in a garden setting, showcasing alpine garden plants and stunning flowering perennials.
Dense collection of alpine flowers with delicate white blossoms and lush green foliage, ideal for garden enthusiasts and alpine plant collectors.
Violet Himalayan Monkshood flowers in full bloom at Alpine Garden Society garden, showcasing alpine plants, flowering herbs, and Himalayan flora for lush garden displays.

Tall bearded irises were flourishing.

Blue iris flower blooming in an alpine garden, surrounded by lush green foliage and pointed leaves, showcasing vibrant colours and healthy growth, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Violet-blue iris flowers blooming in a lush garden with purple and green foliage in the background.
Beautiful white and blue bearded iris flower blooming in a garden, showcasing vibrant colours, lush greenery, and a healthy planting environment, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Shrubs provided an accent at the back of the borders – often big rose bushes, but also a deep red Magnolia, and a Kalmia covered in bright red buds.

Clerodendrum trichotomum, also known as Harlequin glorybower, in a lush garden setting, showcasing vibrant pink and burgundy flowers, large green leaves, and garden greenery, part of Alpine Garden Society plant collections.
Deep maroon and cream flowering clematis plant, lush green foliage, a vibrant addition to alpine gardens and flowering plant displays.
Vibrant flowering alpine plants and lush green foliage in a garden setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardening and plant species suited for mountainous environments.
Vibrant red Euphorbia plant with lush green foliage, perfect for alpine gardens and garden enthusiasts seeking hardy, colourful plants.
Vibrant pink and white rhododendron flowers surrounded by lush green foliage, showcasing the beauty of alpine garden plants. Ideal for enthusiasts of garden design and flower cultivation.

From the top of the alpine scree, there is a view down across the main pool.

Vibrant alpine garden with lush greenery, ornamental trees, and serene pond, showcasing diverse plants suitable for alpine gardening enthusiasts and garden design inspiration.
Serene garden pond with lush green plants, trees, and a stone pathway in a tranquil garden setting, perfect for outdoor relaxation and garden photography.
Vibrant alpine garden with colourful flora, lush greenery, and diverse plants designed for mountain ecosystems and rock gardens. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant lovers.

Alpine Scree

Sadly, this was the one area of the garden which was disappointing.  It seemed to have gone to seed, with few plants of interest.  I found myself photographing foxgloves, Buphthalmum salicifolium, and an ericaceous shrub which might have been a Pieris.

Purple foxglove flowers growing in a lush garden with dense greenery.
Vibrant yellow daisies and pink foxgloves growing in an alpine garden setting, showcasing diverse hardy plants and lush greenery for spring and summer blooms.
Bright yellow alpine daisies blooming among lush green foliage, showcasing typical alpine gardening plant varieties for the Alpine Garden Society.
Dense flowering shrub with small white blossoms and vibrant green leaves, commonly found in Alpine gardens and prized for its ornamental appeal.
Viburnum tinus flowering shrub with clusters of white berries and dark green leaves, ideal for alpine gardens and hedges.

By a seat, there was a carefully trimmed cotoneaster ball.

Dense box shrub in a lush garden setting with flowering plants, perfect for Alpine Garden Society plant showcases and landscape design.
Vivid close-up of lush green alpine plant with small white flowers, ideal for alpine gardening and garden plant enthusiasts.

Geranium maderense

In the new glasshouse the Geranium maderense were large and spectacular.

Vivid pink flowering plants in a botanical greenhouse at Alpine Garden Society, showcasing diverse alpine flora in a controlled garden environment.
Vivid pink and purple alpine geraniums flowering in a greenhouse garden with lush green foliage and potted plants.
Vivid pinkly flowering plants in a lush green garden setting, showcasing alpine flora and vibrant garden displays related to the Alpine Garden Society.
Pink alpine geranium flowers in a lush garden setting, showcasing vibrant blooms ideal for mountain and rock garden planting.

Iris sibirica

At this point we walked back up the old drive for another cup of tea.  Herbaceous borders lay on both sides of the drive.  There were magnificent clumps of Iris sibirica :

  • a very pale cultivar
  • then one which looks very like Flight of Butterflies, but is much taller than I would expect for that
  • and finally a fabulous white cultivar which might be White Swirl.
Alyssum and iris flowers blooming in a lush Alpine garden, showcasing vibrant greenery and a colourful display of hardy plants perfect for mountainous and rocky environments.
Rare alpine violet flower in a lush garden setting, showcasing the beauty of mountain plants and wildflowers, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Rich purple and white bearded iris flowers in full bloom, surrounded by lush greenery and garden foliage, showcasing a vibrant alpine garden setting.
Violet Iris flowers in a lush garden setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society.
White irises in a lush garden bed with leafy green plants and trees in the background, showcasing alpine gardening and vibrant spring blooms.
White alpine flowers in a lush garden setting at the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing beautiful native plants ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Vibrant display of lavender and white alpine flowers along garden pathway at Alpine Garden Society, showcasing diverse plant species and garden design.

Silene fimbriata

As we followed the drive, we saw big clumps of Silene fimbriata, Thalictrum aquilegifolium, and a Euphorbia which I think was E. lathyris.

Faded image of white flowering plants with lush green foliage in a garden setting.
Vibrant white and dark purple flowering plants in a lush garden, showcasing the diversity of alpine plants cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society for enthusiasts and collectors.
Albizia julibrissin flower cluster, white fluffy blooms on green foliage, in an alpine garden, fully bloomed with lush greenery.
Pink astrantia flowers in a lush garden, showcasing vibrant flora ideal for alpine and garden plant enthusiasts. Perfect for alpine garden society members and horticulture lovers.
Pink and white alpine flowers blooming in a lush green garden setting, representing the diverse plant collections of the Alpine Garden Society.
Bright yellow-green orchids with elongated petals growing among tall grass in an alpine garden setting.
Vivid green foliage of alpine plants and bulbs in a lush garden setting, showcasing diverse plant structures and textures for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Bright green, glossy leaves of a garden plant among lush grass and foliage, showcasing healthy alpine flora vibrant in natural sunlight.
RHS garden with tall purple foxgloves and lush green foliage, showcasing vibrant alpine and woodland plants for garden enthusiasts.
Colourful alpine garden with a variety of flowering plants, including purple foxgloves, white valerian, and dark purple globe thistles, showcasing diverse plant species in a lush, natural setting.
Vivid alpine garden with purple alliums, yellow poppies, and various colourful perennials, showcasing vibrant garden design and planting suitable for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Amsonia orientalis

I was particularly pleased to see Amsonia orientalis here; it is a plant I have always enjoyed, but have lost now.

Vivid alpine garden plants with purple and white flowers, showcasing diverse foliage and flowering varieties perfect for rock gardens and outdoor displays.
Vinca minor with lush green foliage and delicate light blue star-shaped flowers, perfect for alpine and native garden plantings. Ideal for gardens focused on drought-tolerant plants and ground cover.
Blue starflower (Brunnera macrophylla) in an alpine garden setting, showcasing vibrant foliage and delicate blooms perfect for temperate gardens and rockeries.

That brings me up to the East Cheshire show.  We have made some more outings since, but I might not have time to post those before I go away.

Read previous entries at The Photographers Diary

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