The arboretum has been developed over a number of years, particularly with the development of the Jubilee Arboretum in the 1970s and 80s. As well as containing the majority of the tree and shrub collections, the areas are also planted up with herbaceous and bulbous material to provide colour, interest and contrast throughout the year.
It has undergone several changes though the most radical were brought about by hurricane force winds that devastated the collection of trees and shrubs in the storms of October 1987 and January 1990.
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Battleston Hill One of the jewels in the crown of Wisley, the original plantings were made in 1937. The area contains many wonderful specimens that provide interest from early winter through to autumn including fantastic Magnolia, Rhododendron and Camellia plantings amongst other trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants. |
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Howard's Field At the northern end of the garden this area is often missed by visitors. Planted with a National Plant Collection of heathers, incorporating over 1,000 species and cultivars, the beds have been placed to maximise visual impact. It is especially dramatic in autumn and winter when the heathers at their most colourful. |
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Jubilee Arboretum Commemorating the Silver Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II, this area has been planted with trees grouped according to season of interest, on the basis of their common characteristics such as shape, colour, foliage and flowers, and also botanically with the species and cultivars of several genera planted together. |
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Mediterranean Garden Sandwiched between Battleston Hill and the Trials Field this is the hottest and driest part of the garden. The area contains many sun-loving plants from mediterranean regions around the world and looks its best during summer. |
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Pinetum This area contains not only pines from which this area takes its name, but also a wide range of trees and shrubs. This includes Acer, Hamamelis and flowering Cornus that have been planted to provide spring and autumn colour. |
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The River Wey Embankment Managed as a wildlife area for an increasing number of birds, animals and insects, the Wey Conservation Area is generally not open to the public, apart from a few organised walks. It is regularly monitored by scientific staff and has become a wonderful and precious resource within the garden. |