The Gardens in May
Approximately one inch of rain fell throughout April so there was plenty of dry weather for all the spring work such as planting and mulching the borders. April and May are good months for this task as the soil is warming up which helps new roots to develop.
Current ongoing work in the gardens includes: setting up displays in the glasshouses; potting on; seed sowing; hedge trimming; new planting in the borders; planting out wild flower plugs into the lawns; and of course mowing.
Our mighty River Lavant, which forms the southern boundary, is a winterbourne – a seasonal stream generally rising in mid winter as the water table saturates the underlying chalk. The river runs through parts of the garden planted for spring effect so make sure you follow the course of the river to enjoy the surroundings, which are looking particularly good at this time of year.
Recently the pergola timbers have been replaced as some were quite rotten. The climbers were removed from the wood work and tied down onto the pillars to get them out of the way. Now that the new timbers (our own Douglas Fir, cut from the West Dean estate) are in position and the rewiring completed, the climbers have been put back in place. Shortly some, such as Wisteria, will be in flower so don’t miss the spectacle.
In the walled gardens new displays are developing in the glasshouses – the fuchsia and pelargonium house has just been set up as well as the herb display next door to it. Soon the basil, mint and nasturtium displays will be on show in one of the lean-to fruit houses so there is plenty to see under glass. Elsewhere ferns are unfurling and orchids flowering so take your time to have a look at the new developments this month but please remember to close the doors firmly behind you. This is particularly important on windy days!
New vegetable crops are growing in the vegetable cold frame and in the kitchen garden. Our parsley trial is thriving as are the new potatoes, brassicas and members of the onion family. Soon the pea and bean support structures will be in place ready to plant up towards the end of the month. You will also see the new support system for our soft fruit which, this year, has moved from one side of the garden to the other and will be planted up shortly.
Don’t forget to take a walk up to the arboretum where there are stunning views from the top of the Downs along the Lavant Valley. There are sheets of cowslips and other emerging wildflowers to enjoy. This really is a wonderfully tranquil place to become immersed in, to soak up the calming effect of unfurling fresh green leaves, the early rhododendron bloom and all the other signs of spring. (The 8” of snow that we experienced in January caused a great deal of damage to the tree and shrub collection. This is being cleared as time allows so please excuse the piles of debris stacked for chipping etc.) On your way to the Arboretum you will see lambs in the park, a seasonal connection to farming on the estate and a joy to observe but please keep well clear of them and keep all dogs firmly leashed.
Looking for something special for the garden? Then look no further... There are plenty of plants for sale next to the Gift Shop for you to choose from so make sure you check them out before you leave.
Of course no visit to West Dean is complete without popping into the Gardens Restaurant – a welcoming and warm haven – and a great place to meet friends for lunch or morning/afternoon tea.
If you’re looking for a lasting gift for a friend or family member, then why not make them a Friend of West Dean. There is so much enjoyment in seeing a garden change through the seasons, plus all the other benefits of being a Friend. Speak to the garden shop staff for more details or visit www.westdean.org.uk
