Volunteer gardeners have been hard at work rejuvenating the southwest corner of the Formal Garden. This area had become quite unruly in recent years, dominated by a thicket of brambles and ivy.
The landscape was further changed in 2024 when a large tree succumbed to a storm.
Rather than simply clearing the tree remnants, the team, working with park staff, embraced a more creative and ecologically-minded approach. The main tree stump was deliberately retained, recognising its value as a crucial habitat for beetles, insects, and fungi – essential components of a healthy environment. It also contributes to preventing deer from getting into the garden and munching on the plants.
Taking inspiration from an idea put forward by volunteer Mary, the team set about clearing the undergrowth to create a unique flower bed centered around the old tree stump, effectively forming a stumpery. This innovative approach not only repurposes a natural element but also adds an interesting textural dimension to the garden.
The volunteer gardeners will continue to nurture this new flower bed, carefully monitoring the growth of the plants and making adjustments as needed to ensure a vibrant and successful display in this once-overgrown corner.