Exhibitors
Back-to-back Gardens
Charlesworth Design
Pteridomania
Designer: Robert S Frier (Charlesworth Design)
Sponsors: Ashley Reclamation, Cheshire Nurseries, TCR Irrigation, Wykeham Mature Plants
Contractors: Andrew R Thomson, Timothy Doyle, Julie Scragg
Click on the image to view a hi-res version
Ferns are back in fashion. They are also great survivors, particularly native ferns that are well adapted to the changeable British climate. This garden includes three native ferns, each growing in its own preferred environment.
Both the mosaic stepping stones that lead over the water, and the murals on the wall, depict the unfurling fronds of ferns. To give the garden unity, a limited selection of stone has been used: jasper, schist and slate. A curvaceous wall adds a strong sense of movement, and divides the space in two. Ligustrum parasols reinforce the circular theme and offer shade forthe ferns.
Watch out! Pop-up misters ration water by dispensing small droplets at prescribed intervals - just enough to keep the ferns cool and moist, and to make the mosaics sparkle.