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Ashington Manor Farm (Yeovil)

After a two-night stay at The Swan Hotel in Wells , we departed for Exeter. Along the way, our first stop was Ashington Manor Farm, the home of the husband and wife garden designers Julian and Isabel Bannerman.  Roses are a specialty of the Bannerman's, but sadly, we were too early to see any. That disappointment was curtailed by touring their magnificent farmhouse, which we were invited to roam around at leisure. And Julian Bannerman, who did most all the talking, was a very entertaining man.  Gathering at the front door - We actually entered at the side of the house, right off the patio, which led to this room, where the Bannerman's greeted us. The massive table was filled with books they had written as well as magazine articles about their gardens. As we were listening to Julian's speech, I happened to notice Isabel Bannerman's book "Husbandry" on the table and immediately recognized it as a book I have at home but have not gotten to yet. At the time, I ha...

Wide Shot Wednesday


Here is a wide shot of the pergola and courtyard area that we've been working on this year. Eventually we want more shade in this area. The pergola itself is already partially shaded by the apple tree on the back right and the hedge of photinia all the way across. In the front area, I've planted a Stewartia, which is visible at the left and a Japanese maple 'Osakazuki' on the right. Not visible in the photo are an Azara and a Black Tupelo (Nyssa).

Notice everything is wet! July is normally the driest month here but we have already received an inch or two. It was a bit muggy today but the high was only 73. 

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. I love this area. It is really coming together. I bet your little pond looks sweet there in the courtyard looking at it from the pergola. How nice to have some wet in July for your garden. Our high yesterday was 96 and I don't have to tell you what the heat index was. UGH... it is to be a cool?? 86 here today. I am not even going to think about the heat index. Seeing all of your plants makes me want to get out there and start planting more.

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  2. It's very beautiful. As the trees grow it will get even better.

    Nice flamingo, too!

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  3. You will have very happy friends and family sitting around the table, under the pergola, sipping refreshments.
    Is it begonia bonfire in the hanging planters? I love it.

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  4. Your garden has progressed so much in the past couple of years. This pergola area is gorgeous!

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