Time was the only wild flowers I would see when visiting gardens were the weeds that the owner had missed. That’s all changed over recent years and now wild flower meadows or naturalistic planting turn up in many plots; they were even part of the 2012 Olympic Park. It’s a trend that’s been accompanied by a rise in the number of ‘how to do’ books on the subject and one of the latest is Ian Hodgson’s New Wild Garden.
Hodgson, former editor of the Royal Horticultural Society’s The Garden magazine, describes the change as a “significant revolution” partly driven by a wish to have more natural-looking gardens and partly by a desire to work with nature rather than against it.
It’s this twin impetus that underpins his book, which is a fusion of suggested styles, such as woodland or meadow, and practical advice on the sort of climatic conditions and soil types necessary to achieve them.
“Taking our cue from nature encourages a more considered and efficient use of natural and manufactured resources so that ultimately our gardens tread lightly on the earth,” he advises.
Easy ways to preserve wildlife habitats are outlined ranging from incorporating water into our gardens and providing shelter for insects to creating access through fences for hedgehogs and growing pollinator friendly plants.
When it comes to naturalistic planting schemes, he suggests that even the smallest garden can include an area of long grass studded with bulbs or wild flowers.
For those with no real garden space he has ideas for containers that mimic woodland or even a meadow.
There are also sections on prairie-style schemes, Mediterranean planting suitable for dry, sunny spots, bog gardens and woodland glades. All are illustrated with numerous photographs by Neil Hepworth.
Each has suggested plants, growing tips and how the scheme will benefit wildlife alongside practical advice on everything from preparing the ground to planting and how to grow using pre-sow meadow mats.
Indeed, New Wild Garden – which is subtitled ‘natural-style planting and practicalities’ – doesn’t stint on advice, going right back to basics in some parts, such as which way up to plant a bulb and how to sow seeds. Such detail may be unnecessary for experienced gardeners but these self-contained sections are easily skipped.
What is of use to both novice and old-hand is the plant gallery section, with ideas for permanent and annual plants, including recommended varieties. Clear pictures and a short description make this an easy-to-use addition and there’s also a list of possible suppliers.
While a completely natural-looking garden may not be to everyone’s taste, what this book does demonstrate is that it is possible for every style to be nature friendly.
• New Wild Garden by Ian Hodgson is published by Frances Lincoln, priced £25 RRP. Buy now. (If you buy via this Amazon link, I receive a small payment. The price you pay is not affected.)
• Review copy supplied by Frances Lincoln.
• Available from The Suffolk Anthology
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