When the weather takes it toll...... look upon it as an opportunity

I was contacted by this client following the collapse of some ageing trellis work which separates front and side gardens.

THE BRIEF

New trellis and trellis gate to allow light through to front garden
Small pond for wildlife
Renew planting to the right of the path (happy with planting against house wall)

It was assumed that the new brief including a small pond would fit into the existing right hand border, however, knowing that much of this garden was shady, I noticed the sun shining in an area of lawn. I proposed that the brief be extended to provide an area of planting all along the right hand side which enjoyed sunshine all day at some point. By putting the pond here, the view from the patio would also be much more interesting. The existing gravel path was easily extended too, and edged with a brick edge curving into the existing lawn.

BEFORE PHOTOS AT THE END

The view now of the path which leads to the pond

The existing deep right hand border, now split in two with a second path
around between two borders. Much easier for maintenance, AND more interesting

From inside the back garden looking back. The border now extends all along the fence line, with a large curve opening it up into the lawn area. The border next to the house was also extended to be enjoyed from the patio and get sunshine.

The garden always more interesting walking between plants, and easier to maintain

The view from the patio. Previously, most of the planting was hidden round the corner. The
new sunny area allows for a Lavender hedge right next to the patio

The beetroot coloured leaves of Heuchera Obsidan contrast with Golden Hop and the emerging
foliage of Panicum grasses

A dark form of Astrantia, will echo the colours of Knautia Macedonia in a couple more weeks

A new variety of Clematis, Giselle, and quite a distinct pink shade

Tall Thalictrum "Black Stockings" with its dark stems. Soon Verbena Bonariensis
will add further height to this central border, joined by the tall seedheads of Stipa Gigantea grass

Landula Hidcote will form a small hedge next to the patio

Beautiful dark leaves of Actea Brunette which will provide drama and scent late summer in shade

Someone approves of the new pond!

Rose Gertrude Jeykel was on the client's wish list. It will be surrounded by Erigeron Profusion,
flowering for several weeks.

Sunshine all morning around the front edge of the pond.
Sedum, Salvia, Silver leaves Stachys, Ballotta, Pinks, and shorter Verbena Lollipop will provide interest for months

BEFORE