The Rock Garden at Wisley is one of the most spectacular features. This huge garden sits on a north-facing hill, conducive to growing alpine plants. The Rock Garden was added after the RHS acquisition in 1903, and it was an extensive project that involved bringing in tons of Sussex sandstone.
An overview of the rock garden, standing from the top. Meandering pathways cover the hillside, with boulders, streams, and waterfalls. The Japanese-style landscaping was added in 2004.
At the top of the rock garden, the Cushion House is a greenhouse for alpine plants (particularly "cushion alpines" that grow in clumps and mats.
I think I've mentioned before that I am not enthusiastic about crevice gardens ( a strange statement, considering I love rocks). They had a large one, just outside the greenhouse.
I did like this trough crevice idea. This would be something I would be more inclined to do in my own garden, if that desire ever surfaces.
Nice bench!
The Bowles-Lyon Rose Garden is named after RHS President Sir David Bowles-Lyon, who served from 1953-1961. This garden was started in 2007 and replaced the old rose borders. There were a few roses blooming, but it was too early to see the majority.
Not to be confused with Sir David Bowles-Lyon, Edward Augustus Bowles, has a long association with RHS and was Vice-President at one time. He is commemorated in "E. A. Bowles Corner", which features bulbs and unusual plants that Bowles loved. Bowles wrote several books, including "My Garden in Spring", "My Garden in Summer" and "My Garden in Fall and Winter". (Note to self -I have all three of these books but have not read them yet).
The oldest part of Wisley is Oakwood. This woodland garden was inspired by wild gardening advocate William Robinson. It is a serene oasis that lies at the heart of Wisley. The layered plantings provide different views in each season. This is how the garden looks in late May and early June.
If I'm not mistaken, there are two walled gardens at Wisley. The first, with the parterred boxwood, was in my previous post. The second on is "Walled Garden West" which focuses on foliage plants.
And finally, last but not least, is the Glasshouse, which has three climatic zones - tropical, moist temperate and dry temperate.
Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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