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Hidcote - pt. 1

I'm just now getting around to organizing the photos from my trip to England back in May. As I've said a million times, this was the trip of a lifetime, and I had an incredible time. This was a 3-week trip organized by the HPSO (Hardy Plant Society of Oregon) during which we visited 35 different locations. Most all of these were gardens but there were also a few castles and villages thrown in, as well as the icing on the trip - the Chelsea Flower Show. This tour focused on the southeast region of England, notably the Cotswolds and Cornwall. I've watched so many programs and read so many books about England and the gardens there that I was afraid it would tarnish the image I had built up in my head. I'm pleased to say that it not disappoint. The trek from London to Bath by train was not the best first impression. However, as we gained distance from the city, the rolling green countryside gave me glimpses of things to come. After arriving in Bath and finding my hotel, I m...
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Ruth & Gary Clark's Garden


It is always a pleasure to tour this garden. Ruth & Gary Clark's residence is on three acres, all beautifully maintained. There are both sun and shade areas and a large fenced-in vegetable garden. Winding pathways take you from one end of the garden to the other with lovely specimen plants that have plenty of room to do their thing. 

We started our stroll at the east side of the garden, which is sunnier. A perfectly shaped Sumac (Rhus)  greets you.

A Sweet Shrub (Calycanthus 'Aphrodite') is at least eight feet tall and wide and was covered in blooms. 

Continuing down the pathway, we see one of my favorite trees, Catalpa bignoinoides 'Aurea'.

Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia' grows along the grassy areas outside the borders.
 I wish I had room for this!  

The pathways and borders surround a huge expanse of lawn.


Looking toward the vegetable garden.


The west side of the garden is shaded by seven huge walnut trees. The property was once a farm.



Throughout the garden is an array of whimsical garden art. Many look like antique pieces and there are also pieces made by Gary, who is a talented artist.

I love these bird houses and forgot to ask where they got them. 






Approaching the patio area next to the house.


You can see some of Gary's art pieces around the patio.

And finally, a pathway leading back to the driveway. A very happy clematis takes center stage (not certain but I think it is 'Romantica'.)

Thank you Ruth & Gary for another great tour!

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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Comments

  1. Kris PetersonJune 22, 2024 at 9:51 AM

    That looks like a garden I'd love to hang out in - forever!

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  2. tz_gardenJune 23, 2024 at 11:47 AM

    Beautifully kept, established garden. How wonderful, through the screen looks like it would be 10° cooler walking there.

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  3. Hoover BooJune 23, 2024 at 6:12 PM

    That's a whole other level of gardening, 3 acres....fantastic and beyond impressive. Excellent photos as well.

    That clematis isn't just happy, it's delirious!

    ReplyDelete

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