Time for Garden Spotting

This design cleverly sets the scene, with the Malvern Hills 
as a backdrop

In around two weeks time, intrepid designers will be digging the first sod – the first ‘on-the-spot’ live action in their bid to create Best Show Garden. Undaunted by weather or ground conditions, knowing that come what may, their garden has to be in tip-top condition by the first day of the Show when judging takes place. The build-up is the culmination of many months of work, and a dream for some, in a bid to become a recognised garden designer. As Chris Beardshaw – well known to Malvern gardening enthusiasts – writes in the 2013 Showguide: “As well as welcoming back old friends, it is exciting to see so many new designers launching their careers at the show, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to spot up-and-coming talent.”

  

Curvaceous lines add interest
(many areas to explore)

I guess that visitors are all too often unaware of the behind the scenes stages – a little background knowledge will surely augment your enjoyment.  So let’s look at what is involved. NEW for 2013 are the Themed Gardens, and following on from a fantastic year for cycling, designers will pay homage to the Tour de France. All the gardens are outdoors, in the same area as the ‘Plants & People’ Theatre. This week's post will give you a sneak preview of the diversity of show gardens this year, with the designers themselves showcasing their gardens-to-be through their sketched garden layouts.

Simplicity of detail is intriguing 

Ingenious use of mono for this design leaves one wondering about plant choice

Geometric shapes are challenging

Each show garden takes around three weeks to build and all are judged for RHS medals. Before judging, each garden exhibitor submits a client’s brief which details the scope and theme of their garden. Detailed assessments are carried out to evaluate the gardens, which are then used as the basis for the judges to make their awards. Assessors and judges take particular interest in the quality of the design, planting and construction. They also take account of the designer’s interpretation of the garden’s theme and its over all impression.

The scene is set ....

Points count. Bronze medals are awarded to gardens receiving between 45 and 54 points; Silver medals for between 55 and 64 points; Silver-Gilt medals for between 65 and 74 points, and Gold medals for 75 points or more. If an exhibit receives fewer than 45 points, no award is made. Visitors frequently disagree with the judges’ verdicts! A special award is given to the best show garden.

And a well-earned rest in warmer climes

It would be impossible to include and identify all the gardens and respective designers in so small a space – there are more than we can show here anyway. So we challenge you to work out which is which and which are not illustrated at all once you have the catalogue in hand (sorry, no medals!) – just enjoy yourself.

Discover more about ALL the Show Gardens on the website - lots more information to entice you to visit the Show; you will be amazed at the versatility and ingenuity of the designers.

AND PLEASE KEEP VISITING Ann's Malvern Jotter: I’ll be blogging every week during April, and as the Show builds, I recommend regular clicks onto the Spring Gardening Show website for regular updates and more breaking news.

WHY NOT ALSO TAKE A LOOK AT THESE PAGES, TOO?  (Just click on the links)
Malvern Spring Gardening Show
Love our Shows, Like our Page - Facebook.com/threecounties
Malvern Autumn Show