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For all of their rustic charm and elegance English gardens have a history rooted in sustenance and crop growing. Some of the earliest English gardens were sheltered, walled gardens where household vegetables were grown for the table.
Horticulture and kitchen gardening has become deep rooted into Britain’s culture over the centuries. From Monastery allotments of the 16th century to the dig for victory campaign of the Second World War. Although famous for dazzling flowers it is often the vegetable garden which are more popular within English gardens. In this article I will list and summarise 10 of the best vegetables for English gardens. 1. Carrots
Carrots have long been a healthy staple within the English diet. These vegetables are versatile as well as they are easy to grow. With their feathery green foliage they can look extremely decorative within traditional vegetable borders. They are also one of the most satisfying crops to harvest!
2. Beetroot
Beetroot is a favourite vegetable within English gardens for its bulb like root and decorative foliage. This vegetable has long been popular for its nutritional value and cold weather tolerance. As well as the root being sweet and delicious the leaves also make a great salad crop.
3. Runner beans
If there was one vegetable which could pass for an ornamental plant it would be the Runner bean. These beautiful climbers have large, heart shaped leaves and bright red flowers. In English gardens they are often grown over tall, tee pee structures made of canes.
4. Cabbage
There is probably nothing quite as impressive as rows of cabbage growing in a vegetable border. Cabbage has been grown in English gardens for centuries loved for its densely packed and nutritious leaves. It is a favourite ingredient in traditional stews and recipes.
5. Potatoes
Potatoes have been a staple crop in Britain since they were introduced to Europe in the late 16th century. This fantastic crop became the carbohydrate of choice in farms and homesteads. They are particularly good for growing within raised beds in English gardens.
6. Spinach
Spinach is an extremely desirable leafy green vegetable for its large, attractive leaves and high nutritional value. Being a cool weather crop it is very suitable for English gardens early and late in the season. It is celebrated both as a cooked vegetable and salad crop.
7. Leeks
Leeks are a hardy vegetable and very much suited to the temperate climate of Britain. This member of the Onion family has been grown for centuries for its great taste and general hardiness. Leeks look particularly decorative growing in long rows of English vegetable plots.
8. Lettuce
Lettuce is probably one of the first crops visualised when imagining an English vegetable garden. Not only are they tasty salad crops, their multiple leaf shapes and colours make them particularly decorative. They are also very easy to grow they are fast to harvest.
9. Onion
Onions are one of the most popular staples within any kitchen garden. They are especially popular within English gardens and grow well within Britain’s cool climate. Their swollen bulbs can look extremely decorative within English vegetable plots.
10. Parsnips
This remarkable root crop is a thing of delicacy during English Christmas dinners and other seasonal roasts. Parsnips are extremely hardy and when established in spring, can be harvested throughout the following winter. Their foliage also looks very decorative!
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English gardens are world famous for their exquisite planting arrangements and use of seasonal drama!
This means flowering bulbs have always been a tactical tool in the English garden designer’s arsenal. This is particularly the case with early flowering spring bulbs which provide the season’s first splash of colour. Subsequent blooms can be experienced with other summer and autumn flowering species. In this article I list and summarise 10 bulbs which are perfect for English garden planting schemes. 1. Snowdrops
When the end of winter draws near, the first delicate snowdrop flowers emerge, adding early interest and charm to English gardens. These hardy bulbs, with their small white blooms and slender green stems, thrive in partial shade and moist soil conditions. This makes them the perfect choice for woodland areas or shaded borders. One of the most exciting aspects of snowdrops is their ability to naturalize, creating beautiful drifts of white beneath trees and shrubs. When these delicate flowers push through the frosty ground, it signals the beginning of spring's arrival, bringing joy and anticipation to gardeners and nature lovers alike. 2. Daffodils
Daffodils are the beautiful yellow flowers that signal the arrival of a new growing season. They bring joy and vibrant color to gardens across England. Daffodils can grow well in areas with full sunlight or partial shade. They prefer soil that drains easily and doesn't stay too wet. There are many different types of daffodils with various sizes, shapes, and colors. From small delicate flowers to large showy blooms, gardeners can find a daffodil to suit their taste. To create stunning displays, plant groups of daffodil bulbs close together in garden beds, borders around trees or shrubs. 3. Bluebells
Bluebells truly one of nature's magical creations! With their delicate, bell-shaped flowers gently nodding in the breeze, they transform English woodlands and shady corners into scenes straight out of a fairy tale. These remarkable bulbs thrive in rich, moisture-retaining soils, carpeting the ground with a vibrant display of bright blue blooms towards the middle of spring. The English bluebell species, with their charming colors, attract many pollinator species. 4. HyacinthsAdding a delightful aroma and vivid colors to any English garden, hyacinths are beautiful bulbs that require moist soil and thrive in sunny or lightly shaded areas. The bulbs produce tall spikes adorned with tightly packed florets in a spectrum of shades such as rich purple, soft pink, vibrant red, calming blue, and pristine white. They do well when planted in containers, window boxes, and rockeries, adding a delightful touch of spring beauty. Moreover, they complement other spring-flowering bulbs perfectly when planted together, creating a balanced display of different tones and fragrances. 5. Crocus
Crocuses are tiny flowering bulbs that bloom early during the spring season. Their delicate, cup-shaped flowers unfurl their petals on warm days, welcoming the arrival of spring. These resilient little plants require well-drained soil and thrive in both sunny and partially shaded areas, making them a versatile choice for gardeners. Crocuses are among the first sources of nectar for hungry honeybees emerging from their winter slumber, playing a vital role in sustaining these important pollinators. One of the most captivating aspects of crocuses is the stunning array of colors they offer. Gardeners can choose colors, including yellow, white, purples, and stripes to complement meadows, lawns, or alpine troughs. 6. Fritillarias
Fritillarias are captivating flowers that can add an air of mystery and architectural elegance to your English garden. These striking blooms are often recognized by their distinctive checkered patterns, with their delicate bell-shaped flowers dangling gracefully above slender, strap-like leaves. All Fritillaria bulbs require rich, well-drained and neutral pH soil, which makes sandy loam the best option. One particularly eye-catching variety is the Fritillaria imperialis, which boasts large, upright blooms on top of sturdy stems. These majestic flowers make an excellent choice for mixing with other spring bulbs, creating a visually stunning early season display! 7. AnemonesAnemones are beautiful flowers which bring a touch of romance into any English garden. These charming blooms grow on slender stems and are very suited to rustic English cottage borders. Anemones have tuberous roots and thrive best in soils rich in humus. Two popular varieties of anemones are Anemone coronaria 'Mr. Fokker' and Anemone nemorosa. The 'Mr. Fokker' variety features deep crimson petals surrounding a dark center, creating a stunning and eye-catching display. On the other hand, Anemone nemorosa produces ethereal clouds of delicate white flowers with yellow centers, giving gardens a calming and fantastic feel. 8. Tulips
Tulips are a traditional flower that add a touch of elegance to any English garden. They thrive in fertile, well-drained soil and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can choose from single-petal varieties or ruffled parrot tulips for a unique look. The Tulipa tarda, with its golden petals speckled with maroon, brings charm to gravel gardens or when planted along stone walls. Naturalizing tulips provide a long-lasting display which can last for decades. 9. Alliums
Alliums are very unique flowers that resemble, round balls on top of tall stems. They are part of the onion family and are easy to grow on most sites. Alliums grow particularly well in regions which have warm summers and cold winters. They like soil that is not too wet or too dry, and the soil should also drain well. After other spring flowers are done blooming, alliums will start to flower and add color borders. Some alliums, like the drumstick allium, only grow about one foot tall. But other varieties can reach up to three feet high. It has to be said, taller Alliums are particularly striking within English garden borders. 10. Lilies
Lilies are stunning, exotic looking flowers that can make any English garden particularly special! They have an amazing fragrance and pretty, trumpet-shaped blooms! The Regal Lily (Lilium regale) does well in soil that is rich with organic matter that drains well. Its blooms are pure white with ruby red spots, and they emit a sweet perfume during warm evenings. Most varieties of lilies inject a real dose of magic to English garden planting displays. Although seasonally short lived, they create one of the most memorable displays of the entire calendar.
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When creating an authentic English garden all landscape elements must be considered carefully.
This is particularly the case with trees as they can make up the main structure of the planting design. In English gardens trees provide height and screening as well as fruits and seasonal colour. Trees can also add a functional element helping to define walkways and soften buildings. In this article I list 10 trees which have typically and historically been celebrated within traditional English gardens. 1. Apples
Apple trees have always been a common sight in English villages and rural gardens for centuries. Historically Apples were grown for producing cooking apples and for the fermentation of cider. These fruit trees were highly valued and were eventually bred into many different varieties. Some of the oldest English apple varieties are the tastiest and most versatile. Although a great fruit crop apple trees are also favoured for their blossom and compact form within English gardens. 2. Silver birch
Also referred to as (Betula pendula), Silver birch trees have been native to England since ancient times. These trees are are especially favoured for their stunning trunks which have a stunning white bark with striped pattern. This tree has a long history of self seeding across Britain as it has light airborne seeds. Although beautiful this tree is extremely hardy and tolerant of most growing conditions. During autumn its small leaves create the most magnificent golden yellow colour. 3. Contorted Hazel
Hazel trees have been ingrained within English folklore and legend for millennia. These trees were originally valued for their long shoots which were perfect for making arrows. These trees have also been highly selectively bred in England for their nuts. the cob nut was grown extensively as a reliable nut crop with their orchards being one common. This contorted variety may not be much good for arrow making but can look stunning within a modern English garden. 4. Magnolia
Magnolias are famous for their large decorative leaves and stunning scented flowers. These trees are such a novelty piece and often add drama to English garden planting displays. Many English gardens love to incorporate seasonal displays to their planting schemes. This makes magnolias a great choice for decorating focal points and the front of buildings. Their flowers can also provide an exotic touch which has also long been celebrated within English garden designs. 5. Cherry
Cherries are one of the most delicate and sophisticated fruits loved in desserts and for jam making. These small but productive trees have been celebrated within English orchards and gardens for centuries. Cherries were often trained against walled gardens to produce ripe and lush fruits which are still considered a delicacy. Cherries have also been loved historically for their exceptional spring blossom which can be quite ore inspiring!. Their compact size and exceptional good looks make them a must have in modern English gardens. 6. Rowan
Also known as the 'Mountain Ash' Rowan trees have long been utilised within English gardens for their resilience and beauty. During early summer these trees produce clusters of small white flowers which create a decorative display. These are followed in Autumn by clusters bright red berries which look radiant and are also prized by local birds. Late in the season the leaves also provides an excellent display of seasonal colour. Rowans are also rather compact and more suitable for smaller English gardens. 7. OakThe English Oak is one of the most celebrated and iconic trees in Britain. This tree has always been highly valued for its strong and indestructible timber. English Oak was primarily used to build the ships which sailed around the world in search of influence. These trees although slow growing have many attributes including an impressive form and decorative foliage. During autumn they produce thousands of acorns which which are loved by local wildlife. Although large these trees are so iconic they certainly require consideration for larger English gardens. 8. Crab apple
Crab apple trees are a wonderful, smaller option compared to standard apple trees. In spring, they burst into bloom with gorgeous blossom displaying tones of pink and white. Their apples may not look as big as traditional apples but don't be fooled! Crab apples are very tasty and can be amazing in juice or for fermenting into cider! In Autumn birds and animals love to feast upon the ripe fruits. The fruits also have a high decorative value within their own right often clinging to stems after the leaves have fallen. 9. Sweet Chestnut
Sweet chestnut trees have featured in large country estates and English gardens for centuries. These trees are very much admired for their beautiful textured bark and romantic form. Originally brought to Britain for their amazing nut crop these trees are beautiful as they are productive. Sweet chestnuts have been used as a building and fencing material in England for many years. This is because the timber is very rot resistant and tolerant of outdoor conditions. This tree also makes great hedging and is perfect if you want edible nuts in your English garden.
10. Willow
The willow tree has long been a feature of the English landscape and is often seen on the edge of ponds and river banks. This tree is famous for its weeping and pendulous form and has a love of damp conditions. Although Willows do eventually become very large they can be pruned to keep them compact. This is typically done in the form of coppice and pollarding. These trees can be a great way to create screening or block bad views within English gardens.
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If there is one thing imagined when contemplating English gardens it is large borders full of colourful, flowering, plants.
English gardens are famous for their decorative planting displays and rich borders full of radiant blooms. When choosing the best flowers for English gardens there are a multitude of factors to consider. Getting the correct colour combinations and seasonal succession of flowers is paramount. You may not be a world class English garden planting designer but you want the best flowers for your project! That is why I have picked 13 of the most classic and popular flowers for English gardens here! 1. Hollyhock
Standing tall in English gardens, the hollyhock is a lovely flower that adds a classic old-fashioned touch to English gardens. These stately plants grow tall, with spikes of colorful blooms in shades like red, pink, yellow, and white. Hollyhocks are perfect for creating drama and height along borders and fences. They attract beautiful butterflies and hummingbirds, which are important pollinators. Because hollyhocks drop seeds so readily, they will often spread throughout a garden and fill in empty spaces naturally. This self-seeding quality means hollyhocks possess an inherent ability to self-propagate, ensuring a delightful, naturalized presence within English gardens. 2. Foxglove
Recognized by their bell-shaped flowers, foxglove adds a charming, rustic touch to any garden. It has delicate bell-shaped blooms arranged along tall spikes. Foxgloves typically grow between three to five feet tall. Their biennial life cycle means they bloom and set seed in their second year before dying off. While the most common colors are shades of pink and purple, you can also find foxgloves with yellow or white flowers. These lovely plants thrive in partially shaded areas, making them perfect for spaces that receive dappled sunlight. Foxgloves attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, bringing life and movement to your garden. 3. Bluebell
The bluebell is a flower that grows naturally in Britain. It has beautiful blue colors that make the ground look like a blue carpet under trees in old forests. Bluebells produce sweet nectar which attracts many insects like bees and butterflies in the spring. Furthermore, these flowers are perfect for planting in English gardens that have trees and shade, similar to old forests. If you plant bluebell bulbs in the right conditions, they will spread and grow more flowers over time. These pretty blue flowers bring joy and color to shady garden areas. 4. HydrangeaThe hydrangea is a beautiful shrub that blooms with dense flower heads in soft, pastel colors or bold, bright shades. These lovely flowers have many small petals that come together to form a large, round cluster. Hydrangeas are very charming and give a romantic look especially to English gardens. These hardy shrubs grow best in partial sunlight and rich, well-drained soil. You can plant them in many different settings – as a hedge, a single specimen plant in your yard, or even in a large container on your patio or deck. One of the great things about hydrangeas is that they are generally not fussy and have a long flowering season. 5. IrisExhibiting different shapes and colors, the iris is a remarkable flower that adds elegance to any English garden. With its long, sword-shaped leaves and intricate, ruffled blooms, it comes in many different shapes, sizes, and hues, ranging from deep purples and blues to vibrant yellows and whites. One of the great things about irises is that they are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, as long as they get plenty of sunlight and good drainage. Some iris varieties even have a lovely, sweet fragrance that fills the air with the scent of old-world charm and nostalgia. 6. LavenderLavender is a beautiful and fragrant plant that is widely recognized as a symbol of the English countryside. With its silvery-green foliage and stunning violet-blue flowers, lavender adds a touch of charm and elegance to any garden. These evergreen plants thrive in warm, dry conditions, making them ideal for planting along pathways, in courtyards, or along the borders of flowerbeds. One of the remarkable features of lavender is its ability to repel pests, while simultaneously attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. 7. Rose
Representing timeless elegance, roses are beautiful flowers that have been a part of English gardens for a long time. They come in different types, like climbers that grow up walls or trellises, ramblers that spread out over the ground, patio roses that are perfect for small spaces, shrub roses that grow into bushes, and standard roses that have a tall stem with flowers on top. No matter what kind of garden you have, there is a rose that will fit perfectly. Choosing rose varieties that are strong and resistant to diseases is a smart idea because it means they will last longer and look pretty without a lot of work. 8. Peony
Peonies are beautiful flowers that bring a sense of sophistication and nostalgia. They have big, layered blossoms that bloom on strong stems. Peonies look very fancy and elegant! They grow best in fertile, well-draining soil and need plenty of sunlight. Once planted, peonies can live for many decades. They reward their owners by blooming abundantly every year, bringing a lovely display of flowers. Peonies require some patience, as it can take a few years after planting before they start blooming. However, once established, they are hardy and easy to grow. 9. Delphinium
Delphiniums are tall, majestic flowers with closely packed, small blooms arranged in towering spikes or spires. They make a stunning addition to any garden, instantly drawing the eye with their vibrant colors and stately presence. Delphiniums thrive in cool climates and require consistent moisture and well-draining soil to flourish. These versatile blooms can be used for both ornamental displays and as long-lasting cut flowers for indoor arrangements. To ensure continued vigor and abundant blooms year after year, it is essential to divide the plants annually. By separating the dense clumps and replanting them, you promote robust growth habits. 10. Wisteria
Wisteria is a stunning plant known for its beautiful, cascading flowers that hang gracefully from its branches like majestic waterfalls. These pendant racemes, or clusters of flowers, create breath taking displays that drape architectural features and supports, adding a sense of serene tranquillity reminiscent of traditional Japanese teahouses. During the month of May, wisteria bursts into bloom, with Chinese wisteria varieties producing larger flower clusters compared to their Japanese counterparts. However, both types require patience as they can take some time to establish themselves and reach their full glory. These legendry climbers have long been appreciated and planted extensively within English gardens, especially along garden structures To maintain their lush, cascading beauty, wisteria plants are best to be pruned twice a year. 11. Lilly
Effortless to establish and maintain, lilies multiply quickly through bulbs, so you can propagate many new plants within a short time. Lily flowers come in different shapes like trumpets, bowls, or funnels. By mixing different kinds, horticulturists have created lots of new varieties with all sorts of sizes, patterns, and colors. These flowers like soil that is not too acidic or alkaline. They also need enough water. Lilies don't get attacked by too many pests, so they stay beautiful without much trouble. 12. Primrose
Gentle harbingers of spring, primroses are beautiful little flowers that have soft, delicate petals and grow close to the ground in a circle of leaves called a basal rosette. When you see primroses blooming, you know winter is coming to an end and warmer days are coming. There are now a few different kinds of primroses have special traits with various colour combinations available. However traditional English gardens are best to stay with the classic creamy yellow blooms. Primroses are great for gardens because they gradually spread and grow back every year. Having primroses in your garden helps support other plants and creatures that live there too. 13. AsterAsters are beautiful flowers that bloom during late summer and early fall. They have bright, colourful petals that look like small stars. Many insects, like bees and butterflies, love to drink the sweet nectar from aster flowers. This helps them get ready for the winter months when there won't be as many flowers to feed upon. Asters come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. Their sunny, daisy-like appearance and cheerful blooms are the perfect choice for English gardens. These tough, hardy flowers are easy to grow and don't need a lot of special care. They thrive in full sunlight and average soil conditions.
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English gardens are world famous for their exquisite planting design and lush green borders. One of the most critical elements of their planting arrangements is the use of shrubs.
Shrubs provide body and structure to a planting design providing plenty of colour and texture. In this article I list and summarise 10 English garden shrubs perfect for your English garden project. 1. Camellias
Camellias, originating from East Asia, bring an elegant touch to English gardens with their glossy evergreen leaves and dazzling flowers. During the late winter or early spring months, their vibrant flowers offer a much-needed burst of color. These decorative shrubs thrive in acidic soil conditions and partial shade, yet they possess the adaptability to flourish in various environments. Incorporating camellias into your garden adds visual depth through a range of textures and forms, enhancing their overall aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, their extended flowering season makes them an invaluable asset for creating stunning indoor cut flower arrangements. 2. Mexican Orange BlossomChoisya ternata, also known as the Mexican Orange Blossom, is a shrub native to the southwest USA and Mexico that seamlessly blends into English gardens. Its glossy, deep green leaves and fragrant white blooms captivate the eye. This hardy shrub thrives in full sun or partial shade, adapting well to various soil conditions. When you plant several Mexican Orange Blossoms together or against a brick wall, they an add an interesting look to your English garden. Moreover, its sweet aroma attracts pollinators, supporting local ecological systems. 3. HydrangeaGrowing hydrangeas is lots of fun. These well suited shrubs for English gardens produce large, round, flower clusters. The flowers can be blue, purple, pink, white, or even green, Hydrangeas can grow in a broad range of different soil types. These shrubs will require good drainage and some shade from direct sun. Hydrangeas flowers can change colour depending upon if soil is more acidic or alkaline. This can add some extra excitement and interest to your flower border. 4. Box Leaf HoneysuckleThe Box Leaf Honeysuckle, originating in China, is a remarkable shrub which is often utilized for forming hedges within English gardens. They have vibrant green, oval-shaped leaves that form a dense, and compact shape. Trimming is only necessary once a year after blooming. Remarkably, Box Leaf Honeysuckle thrives in full sun or partial shade, flourishing across various soil types but prefers a well-drained, humus-rich soil. Beyond its use as a hedge, Box Leaf Honeysuckle's versatility extends to artistic shaping and patterning, which can be seen in topiary. This shrub can be planted and clipped to produce geometric forms in keeping with classical English styles. 5. Californian lilacCalifornian lilac, also known as Ceanothus, is a beautiful plant that comes from Western North America. It produces small, blue flower clusters which cover the shrub during summer. Californian lilacs require soil that drains well but is also moisture retentive. In English gardens this shrub can form elegant hedges or a good mid border specimen. Ceanothus can look very effective next to paths, driveways, or around the base of buildings. 6. St Johns wortScientifically referred to as (Hypericum androsaemum), St. John's Wort is a beautiful shrub that works very well in English gardens. This shrub has buds which open into soft yellow flowers which beneficial insects love. St Johns Wort grows well in most types of soil, as long as there is good drainage.. However, it does prefer slightly acidic soil and thrives best in full sun. These shrubs can be trained to grow up trellises, arbors, or other garden supports. They also look beautiful spilling over the edges of containers or terraced gardens. This shrub can also be planted within blocks to form an effective groundcover. 7. PhiladelphusPhiladelphus, also known as the mock orange or sweet mock orange, is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. Its scientific name, (Philadelphus coronarius), refers to its striking resemblance to the orange blossoms, both in appearance and fragrance. This delightful plant can reach impressive heights of up to 4 meters (13 feet), making it an excellent choice for bold statements within the English border. For the mock orange to grow at its best it needs some partial shade. This shrubs flowers produces a very sweet scent which locally perfumes the air. This means it is perfect for walkways and English garden courtyards. 8. BoxBox (Buxus sempervirens) is a shrub that is very popular in traditional English gardens. It has small, green leaves that are often clipped neatly into dome shapes. Box plants are very hardy and can grow well within a variety of different conditions. They don't need any particular soil type, as long as they do not dry out. One of the best things about box plants is that you can use them in a variety of different ways. You can also make knot gardens, which are gardens with box plants trimmed into intricate patterns. No matter how you use them, box plants bring a classic, timeless look to English gardens. 9. FuchsiaFuchsias are beautiful flowering plants that add much color and style to the English garden border. These plants come from warmer climates such as Central and Southern America. Fuchsias have long, hanging flowers with layers of petals which look like little skirts. Their flowers often display many different colors such as purple, pink, red, and white. Fuchsias love mid temperatures and wet weather, which is why they grow so well in coastal areas of England. Fuchsias prefer a loamy soil which is moisture retentive but also well drained. This flower does provide a more exotic look to English garden borders. 10. BuddleiaBuddleia, also known as butterfly bush are beautiful flowering shrubs that have trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers come in a variety of different colors including purple, pink, white, orange, and yellow. These flowers are filled with sweet nectar that butterflies love. Buddleia originally come from China, but they grow exceptionally well in the English climate. They can be planted in full sun or light shade, but are generally not fussy. These shrubs are also easy to prune into a variety of different shapes and forms.
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English gardens are celebrated for their generous flower borders and historical elegance. English garden borders are often broad and well structured.
Such generous planting schemes often require low growing ground cover plants to the front of flower beds. English garden groundcovers provide fine visual textures and also help to suppress weeds. In this article I list and summarise 10 of the best ground cover plants for English gardens. 1. Ostrich fern
With lush, tall fronds, ostrich fern is a majestic plant that can add a touch of natural beauty to any garden. It can reach an impressive height of up to five feet, creating a stunning visual display. This fern forms dense colonies, effectively crowding out any unwanted weeds that may try to take root in the area. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil conditions and prefers partial shade, making it an ideal choice for damp areas in traditional English gardens. The feathery foliage of the ostrich fern not only adds a delicate texture and elegant appeal to the garden, but also helps to suppress the growth of undesirable plants. 2. Cranesbill geraniumCranesbill geraniums are incredibly hardy plants that produce bright and colorful blooms in the spring. These eye-catching flowers are accompanied by lush, green foliage that remains attractive all year round or for most of the year, depending on the variety. What makes cranesbill geraniums truly remarkable is their ability to thrive in a wide range of soil conditions, although they do best in well-draining soil. These low-growing, mounded plants are perfectly suited for use as ground covers or edging plants in English-style gardens. When planted around taller perennials or shrubs, these groundcover plants add a pop of color and help suppress weeds due to their dense growth habit. 3. Creeping thyme
A wonderful choice for sunny spots in English gardens, Creeping Thyme is a small, aromatic plant that can tolerate dry conditions very well. They form a dense, low-growing mat of tiny leaves and beautiful pink or purple flowers. This groundcover plant does best in poor, alkaline soil. You can use Creeping Thyme in many creative ways. Plant it between pavers or along walkways to create fragrant stepping stones that also help prevent weeds from growing. The plant is also a great choice for planting on top of walls or retaining walls, where it will spill over the sides in a lovely cascade of color and scent. With its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, Creeping Thyme is a versatile and tough addition to any garden. 4. Lilly of the valleyThe lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is a delightful and fragrant flowering plant. It produces charming bell-shaped white blossoms that gracefully hang along arching stems. Beneath these elegant blooms, you'll find vibrant green, linear leaves that add to the plant's dazzling beauty. This woodland ground cover thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial to full shade conditions. When planted in shaded corners, these delicate beauties create captivating, natural displays that will bring a touch of fancifulness to your outdoor space. 5. HeucheraHeucheras, or coral bells, are small perennial plants that are famous for their stunning foliage. These plants form lovely round clusters of lobed leaves in a variety of vibrant colors, ranging from deep burgundy red to bright chartreuse yellow. The leaves often have intricate patterns or veining that adds to their beauty. Heucheras thrive in consistently moist yet well-draining soil conditions and prefer partial to full shade environments. With their mounding growth habit and eye-catching foliage, these groundcover plants make excellent additions to English-style garden borders, providing textural interest and a pop of color. 6. Ladies mantleLady's Mantle is a lovely plant with soft, rounded leaves and clusters of tiny, star-shaped yellow flowers. This plant can grow in many types of soil and light conditions. You can plant Lady's Mantle in flower beds with other plants, in pots, or by itself as ground cover. Lady's Mantle will add texture and interest to your garden through the seasons. It brings charm and beauty to any garden area. With its versatility and attractive features, Lady's Mantle is a great choice for creating beautiful garden landscapes. 7. Lilly turfLily Turf, popularly called monkey grass, is a hardy evergreen plant with the scientific name Liriope spicata. Its striking features include dark green, elongated leaves resembling swords and upright spikes adorned with lavender-purple blooms. This resilient ground cover thrives in well-drained soil conditions and prefers partial shade environments. Throughout the year, Lily Turf offers a visually appealing and structured presence, making it a delightful addition to traditional English gardens. 8. Creeping JuniperThe creeping juniper, known scientifically as Juniperus horizontalis, is a marvelous evergreen ground cover that requires minimal effort for upkeep. Its needle-like foliage boasts a striking blue-gray color, adding a touch of natural beauty to any landscape. This hardy plant is highly adaptable, thriving in diverse soil conditions and demonstrating remarkable resilience against heat and drought. As a result, the creeping juniper emerges as an exceptional choice for covering banks, slopes, or rockeries, particularly in English-style gardens. 9. LavenderLavender is a wonderful plant that brings a delightful fragrance and beautiful violet flower spikes to English gardens. These plants, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, thrive in chalky or alkaline soils and require full sun exposure. Lavender is an excellent choice for ground cover, as it attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Additionally, lavender serves as an elegant edging plant, providing a beautiful border around pathways or garden beds. 10. BergeniaBergenias, scientifically known as Bergenia cordifolia, are remarkable ground cover plants. Their wide, lush leaves spread across the ground horizontally, forming a thick mat that effectively covers bare spots and prevents weeds from growing. Bergenias have strong, deep roots that create an extensive network underground, ensuring they remain stable and resilient even in harsh conditions. In spring, they produce beautiful rose-pink or pure white flowers on tall stems, adding ornamental value to your garden while serving as excellent ground cover. Bergenias seamlessly combine structural support, lush foliage, and stunning floral displays, making them ideal for traditional English gardens.
Thank you for reading our article on the best ground cover plants for English gardens!
If you require garden drainage services do not hesitate to contact us. Based in Amersham, we provide a wide range of garden landscaping services including: paving, patios, driveways, paths, edging, raised beds, garden drainage, lawn drainage, gardening, fencing, new lawns, garden walls, ponds, re-levelling, planting, wildlife gardens and vegetable gardens. Our landscaping services cover a 10 mile radius from Amersham and typically cover: Amersham, Aylesbury, Bovingdon, Chalfont, Chesham, Hyde Heath, Great Missenden, Princes Risborough, High Wycombe, Penn, Beaconsfield, Tring, Gerrard's Cross and Denham.
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Landscape and garden drainage can be a more in depth topic than many give it credit for. In my experience drainage solutions on a particular site can be influenced by so many varying factors.
Topography, geography, soil type, climate, annual rainfall and hydrology all play a role in reaching a sites optimal drainage. However, many often seek a solution without assessing a particular drainage problems cause. A common question when tackling garden drainage is; ‘what should I add to my soil?’ ‘What is best for drainage sand or gravel?’ The truth is there are very specific circumstances for both materials when improving garden drainage. In this article I will answer the question is gravel or sand best for garden drainage? What is best for garden drainage sand or gravel?
Sand and gravel are both effective at improving garden drainage but in completely different ways. Gravel is specifically utilised for its ability to drain water through its particles quickly.
However sand is more useful when mixed with soil to provide a more stable structure and open texture. This helps compacted soil particles to fragment, adding air pockets so water can percolate. Sand on its own does not drain as quickly as gravel but when worked in can create a more free draining soil.
Consequently both sand and gravel are great for garden drainage but in completely different ways. There is no particular material which is better for drainage than the other.
If we are measuring what drains water faster on mass, it would be 10mm gravel. However if we are searching for a material to mix with the soil it would be sharp sand. How to use sand for garden drainage?
If your soil is very heavy and impervious like clay, sharp sand can greatly improve drainage. However, in order for it to be successful you will need to add and mix in a substantial amount. You will need to spread a generous layer of between 50 – 75mm of sharp sand over your soil. If you are spreading over a large area, this can amount to many tones and days of labour. The sand must then be worked into the soil with a tiller so they mix thoroughly.
This will greatly improve the drainage and permeability of your topsoil. Sand however, can also be used as a free draining layer. This is where you spread a 30mm layer of sharp sand under a new lawn.
A 30mm layer of good quality topsoil is then spread on top and the new lawn laid. The sand layer provides drainage to the topsoil layer aiding surface water to percolate away from the surface. What is the best sand for garden drainage?The best sand for garden drainage is coarse sand or sharp sand. Its particles easily cut into heavy soils and help to break them up. The random sized particles also help surface water to percolate efficiently. How to use gravel for garden drainage?
In landscape drainage free draining gravels are used to draw water out from surrounding soil. Evenly graded gravels have an extremely high permeability and ability to absorb high volumes of water. These attributes make gravel perfect for filling around perforated pipe channels and soak-aways. In landscape drainage, gravels are primarily used to create free draining buffer zones around drainage pipes and soak-aways.
However, I would not mix these gravels directly with the soil to improve drainage. In my experience their angular structure leads to more soil compaction. Horticultural grit is much better for soil drainage and has smaller particles.
However I personally think coarse sands are best for improving drainage to clay soils. Furthermore, working in organic matter such as compost and woodchips is also effective for soil drainage. What is the best gravel for garden drainage?
The best gravel for drainage is 10mm gravel from an angular and non calcareous aggregate. 20mm and above contains too many larger air spaces potentially leading to displacement and surrounding ground movement. 10mm is just as free draining but provides enough density to hold back excavated soil channels and soak ways.
The gravel should be made up of an impervious material so water does not penetrate the individual aggregates. Rock particles which absorb water such as limestone are subject to freeze and thaw as well as break down from acid rain.
This can lead to eventual silting and clogging of the drainage system. In the UK we use a 10mm standard pea gravel or shingle for garden drainage installations.
Thank you for reading our article on which is better for drainage sand or gravel? Below I will link to some of our other articles you may find relevant and useful.
If you require garden drainage services do not hesitate to contact us. Based in Amersham, we provide a wide range of garden landscaping services including: paving, patios, driveways, paths, edging, raised beds, garden drainage, lawn drainage, gardening, fencing, new lawns, garden walls, ponds, re-levelling, planting, wildlife gardens and vegetable gardens. Our landscaping services cover a 10 mile radius from Amersham and typically cover: Amersham, Aylesbury, Bovingdon, Chalfont, Chesham, Hyde Heath, Great Missenden, Princes Risborough, High Wycombe, Penn, Beaconsfield, Tring, Gerrard's Cross and Denham.
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Front gardens are the very first impression people get of our home. A well designed and maintained front yard is the best way to portray your personal style and values. In front gardens small trees can help to soften bold lines and the monotony of masonry surfaces. Trees can also add colour, seasonal interest as well creating habitat for song birds and other wildlife. In this article I list and describe 10 small trees suitable for front gardens. As well as adding value they will not grow too large helping to safeguard your homes structural integrity. 1. Magnolia
Magnolias are highly favoured for their decorative foliage and very large exotic looking flowers. The flowers typically come in tones of white, pink, purple and yellow while also giving off a pleasant scent. Magnolias are a broad and diverse genus of attractive flowering trees and shrubs perfect for the front gardens. Originally from southern China and the southern United States they prefer a sheltered spot but are generally tolerant. Magnolias are very effective at adding seasonal drama to the front of buildings.
2. Japanese maple
Also known by its scientific name (Acer palmatum) this tree is valued worldwide for its attractive foliage and compact form. Originally native to China, Korea and Japan this tree prefers well drained soil and partial shade. The Japanese maple comes in a range of foliage colours from green to red. It is particularly celebrated during autumn when it displays the most radiant of colours. During this time its leaves turn bright tones of brilliant red, orange and yellow. Coming in a variety of sizes and forms this tree is the perfect focal point for front gardens.
3. Bay tree
The Bay tree has long been well known for its aromatic leaves which are popular within cooking. However, Bay is also an extremely sought after ornamental garden tree. It is especially effective in front gardens planted either side of an entrance or window. Two Bay trees are trained into lollypop shapes with a well clipped ball of foliage on top. Its dark green evergreen foliage makes it the perfect tree for pruning into formal hedges and shapes. Once established it is very low maintenance and appreciates a sheltered site with well drained soil.
4. Chinese windmill palm
Scientifically known as (Trachycarpus Fortunei) this fantastic fan palm is celebrated for its elegance and architectural form. Native to Central China it is favoured for its ability to tolerate much colder temperatures than other palms. This palm is loved for its long, slender trunk of brown fibres and rigid, fan shaped leaves. It is perfect for injecting an exotic feel to gardens with much cooler climates. In colder regions it prefers the shelter of tall walls or buildings. This makes it a perfect specimen for front gardens adding real visual impact!
5. Siberian pea tree
The Siberian pea tree is a small deciduous tree or large shrub native to Siberia. Due to its native range this tree is extremely resilient, cold hardy and adaptable. It is favoured for its nitrogen fixing properties adding fertility to poor quality soils. This tree has robust roots systems which have also made it useful for erosion control. During spring the pea tree produces yellow pea like flowers which are extremely ornamental. The flowers are followed by clusters of seed pods which also add to its decorative appeal. Its compact size and seasonal splendour makes it the perfect tree for front gardens.
6. Crab apple
A very close relative of conventional apple trees the Crab apple is more favoured for its ornamental value. The apples themselves are very small generally measuring around an inch in diameter. The fruits are plentiful and brightly coloured hanging on even after autumn leaves have fallen. This provides visual appeal which continues into the winter months, if local birds allow of course! During spring this small tree is also adorned with attractive flowers which are much loved by pollinators. With its small size, wildlife value, striking flowers, and attractive fruits the crab apple is the perfect small tree for front gardens.
7. Chinese dogwood
Also known by its scientific name (Cornus kousa) is a deciduous tree originally native to East Asia. During early summer it puts on a striking display of pink or white flowers with four lobed petals. These form into vibrant red berries during autumn boosting its seasonal appeal. A combination of dense foliage and edible berries also makes this tree excellent for local birdlife! With this trees adaptability, compact size and numerous aesthetic qualities it is a fantastic choice for front gardens.
8. Paper bark maple
The Paperbark Maple is a small deciduous tree originally native to China. This tree has decorative bark which naturally peels in a ribbon like fashion. This gives it real interest during the winter months when most plants are bare. It also has attractive, trifoliate or ‘three lobed’ leaves which turn shades of red and orange during autumn. The Paper bark maple typically grows no more than 25 feet making it perfect for front gardens. All it needs is a well drained soil and some partial shade.
9. Corkscrew hazel
The Corkscrew hazel is a deciduous shrub or small tree loved for its contorted stems and branches. A variation of the traditional hazel this tree is also loved for its attractive foliage and decorative catkins. The corkscrew effect of these hazels branches make it particularly interesting during wintertime. Native to Europe this tree is extremely hardy and tolerant of most growing conditions. For even more visual interest there is also a red foliage variety of this tree. Given a well drained soil and some partial shade it will make a pleasant addition to any front garden.
10. Flamingo willow
The Flamingo willow or (Salix integra ‘Hakuro – Nishiki) is an ornamental willow loved for its decorative and variegated foliage. This deciduous shrub is often trained into a small standard tree generally reaching a height of six feet. This makes it the perfect small tree to adorn lawns and small front gardens. The leaves of this tree emerge as a pink colour in spring followed by white and green as they mature. This gives the flamingo willow transitional interest throughout the growing season. this willow is an effective dwarf ornamental tree option for the front of the home.
Thank you for reading our article on the best small trees for front gardens! Below I will link to some other articles you may also find useful.
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Landscaping is very often overlooked in importance when it comes to developing a property. However, landscaping around your home to prevent water from congregating is an important commodity.
Water sitting around your home can lead to a multitude of problems which can become costly to repair. Boggy gardens and damp soils can also dramatically reduce the desirability of your garden and home overall. Long gone are the days of simply pluming access storm water into the drainage network. Drainage policy now requires any excess surface runoff from your property to be accommodated on site. Therefore landscaping around your home to prevent water run-off is of upmost importance. In this article I summarise the whole topic of landscape drainage around your property. I explain how to identify and diagnose drainage problems and how to solve them. Why is water sitting around my house?
The two most common reasons for water sitting around the home are surface levels and saturated ground. When it rains if water is travelling towards your home it means surrounding levels are directing water towards your property. This can be altered by re-working the levels and falls of adjacent lawns, borders and paving. If your garden has existing drainage problems it will have saturated ground. This ultimately means the water in your garden has nowhere to escape to in times of heavy rainfall. Such circumstances can be solved by installing drainage which we will explain later in the article. Other typical reasons for water sitting around your house include: Clogged gutters
Over a series of years roof gutters can become clogged with moss, leaves and other debris. Over time this can build up leading to clogged pipes. When it rains the gutters become overwhelmed pouring water down your walls and onto surrounding surfaces. This can be resolved by clearing out your gutters fully.
Blocked drainage channels
Drainage channels come in a range of different drainage features and products. The most common of these include grated channels which collect storm water run-off from paving. Like gutters drainage channels can easily become silted and blocked over time. If water is sitting around these drainage features give them a thorough clean out. Once debris is removed they can be flushed out with warm water.
Ruptured pipes
Although rare, ruptured pipes can lead to standing water around the home. Ruptured water mains will be obvious as there will be a continuous and vigorous flow of water. However most water mains run under the front of buildings and are very robust. Ruptured pipes are almost always fractured terracotta pipes which were a part of an old drainage system. The tell tale signs of these are random boggy areas or standing water isolated in a single location.
High water table
A water table is the level under the ground where water naturally sits seasonally. If you were to dig a deep hole in your garden the level at which water sits is your water table. The level of this depends upon your local weather, geology and topography. If you live within a river basin this will be higher and in more elevated areas much lower. A high water table means you may experience standing water in times of very heavy rain. Your local flood risk assessment should offer you specific information on this.
Sinking ground
Sinking ground is generally quite rare, however, there are a few reasons why it can happen. Recent excavations such as service trenches can result in subtle sinking as the ground naturally re-compacts. Incorrectly laid paving can also sink if the correct sub-base is not installed. Such slumping and low spots can help water to congregate and stand around your home. This can be solved by re-grading levels around your property, more on this later.
Nearby construction
Nearby construction of any kind can change the landscape drainage dynamics around your home. On a basic level any increase in local surface run-off can lead to standing water around your property. Surrounding properties only have so much garden space dedicated to lawn and flower borders to absorb excess water. Consequently, new patios, driveways, garden offices, conservatories and extensions all contribute to excess water run-off. Even if such surfaces come with drainage soak-aways the water is still being directed into the ground. This leads to excess soil saturation.
Dangers of standing water around your home
Flooding
Flooding where water actually breaches the entrances to homes is extremely rare and is mainly restricted to extreme regional flooding events. However very saturated sites at the lower end of slopes are at risk of localised flash flooding events. Even slight flooding can breach air bricks leading to damp foundations, and floor joists. Consequently, standing water around the home should be mitigated before freak weather events exacerbate the problem.
Damp
Standing water around your home increases the risk of splash back and rising damp. Even though most buildings have damp proof courses saturated ground can still be a problem. Dampness around foundations can lead to high humidity making joists and floor boards damp
Subsidence
In extreme cases too much water around the home can lead to movement within the surrounding ground. This can particularly be the case in regions of certain geologies and elevations. Water can lubricate small particles within the subsoil increasing the risk of movement and subsidence.
Freeze and thaw action
Freeze and thaw action is when moisture within masonry materials freezes and expands. The expansion of freezing water molecules leads to the fracturing and weakening of masonry structures. The result is a flaking and cracking to brickwork and porous concrete work. Consequently, making sure your homes masonry work is dry during the winter months is of upmost importance.
Bacteria
Moisture and water sitting for a period for time provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This is especially so during the summer months when germs breed at a faster rate. This can lead to the risk of infectious disease to your household and local animal life.
Odours
Saturated surfaces are challenging to clean making them susceptible to bacterial growth and bad odours. These are especially off putting around lawns and garden seating areas.
Mold
Mold is a dust like growth formed by certain types of air borne fungi. These mold fungi thrive in damp conditions and particularly upon paper, card, clothing and timber products. Water around the home can increase humidity levels leading to the risk of mold establishment. Mold can cause bad smells as well as an allergic reaction especially in people with Asthma.
Pests
Excess water around your home encourages the establishment of microscopic plants such as algae. Over time this leads to a base of other microscopic creatures and ecosystems. Such environments eventually encourage larger pest species such as insects, invertebrates and vermin. The less water you have around your home the less chance there is of encourage unwanted guests.
The problem with modern storm water legislation
There is no doubt that sustainable drainage legislation attempts to solve flash flooding and the pollution of waterways. However, there are many unintended consequences of implementing such rules. Current legislation requires all water runoff from new development or hard surfacing to be retained on site. Overtime this can dramatically increase the amount of ground water around urban areas.
Particularly during heavy rainfall the natural ability for soil to absorb water becomes compromised. This leads to boggy soil and flooded gardens.
Eventually this leads to unusable backyards and in extreme cases can cause ground movement and subsidence. Directing water into soak-aways and french drains works for so long until these installations become overwhelmed. The best solution to resolve the problem would to be to create expansive wetland parks outside towns and cities.
These wetlands would be designed to accept and clean urban runoff using native wetland plants. The storm water could be completely contained from existing waterways whilst providing recreational parks and habitats for wildlife.
One of the biggest barriers to this becoming reality is space and cost. Real estate around urban areas is some of the most expensive and difficult to develop. How to diagnose your drainage problem
Boggy lawns and flower borders
Boggy lawns and borders are a sign of ground saturation. Saturation occurs when your existing backyard cannot naturally absorb the amount of water running to it.
If this is a recent problem it may be the case that your locality is experiencing greater volumes of surface runoff. This could be due to heavier rain fall, recent building work or a change in levels to surrounding or adjacent properties. Standing water on paved surfaces
If you have standing water sitting on paved surfaces it is clear the water has nowhere to escape. It could be a patio drainage system has failed or a grated channel drain has become blocked. If your paved surfaces have puddles it is possible the levels are not allowing water to fall away. This could mean you need to relay some areas or install a drainage system.
Isolated puddles of water
If your garden has developed a spontaneous puddle of water in one area it could be a broken or leaky pipe. Very often isolated puddles in lawns and flower beds are a result of broken pipes. The most common reason is old broken clay or concrete land drainage pipes. In such cases you should carefully excavate around them to expose the source.
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