Show Garden Variety in 2014

Stages of Show Garden construction for the May 2013 Spring Show

With some awesome themes and evocative Show Gardens scheduled for this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival, and in a new location on the Showground for 2014, I think back to last year’s build-up and the sheer ingenuity that will turn patches of sometimes muddy ground into desirable garden spaces. Whether it is bringing a message home, or creating a garden for the sheer joy of doing so, this year’s themes will captivate as much as in any former year.

Show Garden OS567, 'Shears & Chardonnay': 
Designer Jody & Tim Lidgard

Nine in all, and varying in size and shape, the names alone will inspire, and maybe have one guessing as to hidden meanings. Take ‘Shears and Chardonnay’ – a Woodland garden representing a corner or the end of the country garden where boundaries can often blur and merge with the surrounding lanes and fields in rural Suffolk.

Show Garden OS562, 'Blush': 
Designer Outer Spaces Design Ltd

Or ‘Blush’ – an urban retreat, with somewhere to sit and relax whilst escaping the stress of everyday life. A stepping stone path leads you into the centre of the space, which is a seating area enclosed by rendered walls. A sculptural piece consisting of stainless steel flowers on long stems forming a ‘ball’ is echoed throughout the space with living box balls. 

Show Garden OS565, 'A Fruity Story': 
Designer Richard Wanless Twigs Gardens

Secret spaces appeal to many gardeners faced with the everyday stresses of a busy life, so ‘A Fruity Story’ is sure to appeal. A modern yet informal kitchen garden, it provides somewhere to relax, to enjoy the fruits of one’s labours. Inspired by the new format of the RHS Malvern Spring Festival, the designer has incorporated three festival themes in the garden – Food and Drink, Grow and Taste and Heritage.

Show Garden OS566, 'Living with Parkinson's Garden': 
Designer Ruth Gwynn

The ‘Living with Parkinson’s Garden’ try to illustrate what it must be like to live with Parkinson’s disease Parkinson’s is caused by the loss of nerve cells in the brain. It leads to the main symptoms of tremors, slowness of motion and stiffness. Many sufferers experience feelings of frustration that they can no longer do simple everyday tasks easily. So the journey around this garden is intended to be deliberately difficult and frustrating. 

Show Garden OS568, 'Ooooh … It makes me wonder': 
Designer Teresa Rham Groundesigns

'Ooooh …. It makes me wonder’ should resonate with us all, for it reflects upon the one situation which we will all experience sooner or later – death. The garden depicts an imaginary, unearthly place – a location between the physical and metaphysical worlds, whilst at the same time providing a sense of security by replicating the ‘familiar’.

Show Garden OS564, 'The Quiet Garden':
Designers Angie Turner, Kristina Fitzsimmons & Patrick Swan

Raising awareness of the International Quiet Garden Trust whilst illustrating the ability of gardens to encourage rest, spiritual refreshment and meditation is ‘The Quiet Garden’. It is intended to provide spiritual refreshment by stilling the mind with turns in the meditation path requiring concentration – a diversion from daily worries. The Trust is a small charity which spreads its network across the world – gardens could be found in private homes, churches, schools, retreat centres and hospitals.

Show Garden OS563, Bringing Nature Home': 
Designer Graduate Gardens Ltd

'Bringing Nature Home' has been inspired by natural planting and shows how British native wildflowers can be incorporated into a more modern style of garden. The layout has a modern feel, leading out into the natural rural landscape beyond; with the naturalistic planting setting it at ease within the landscape. Wildlife friendly to encourage bees and butterflies, it incorporates a simple reflective pool, with drips of water coming down from the steel joist creating simple ringlets on the water surface.

Show Garden OS561, 'ROSY & Victory': 
Designer Samantha Willis Garden Design

2014 marks 100 years since the start of the First World War and ‘ROSY & Victory’ is an Edwardian-style design celebrating the traditional English garden, as inspired by the war poet Siegfred Sassoon. 

’’Return to greet me, colours that were my joy, 

Not in the woeful crimson of men slain, 

But shining as a garden; come with the streaming 

Banners of dawn and sundown after rain.” 

It’s a garden within a garden (typical of many a garden of the time, when small garden entities were fashioned within much larger acreage. 

Show Garden OS569, 'En su Casa en La Playa': Designer Villaggio Verde

Transport yourself abroad to the Balearics and the largest Show Garden ever to have been constructed at Malvern. ‘En su Casa en La Playa (At home on the beach)’ is a theatrical representation designed to evoke happy memories of summer and holidays in the sun. At the back of the beach house is a driveway lined with aromatics, and olive trees set into lawn areas.  At the front of the house are specimen rosemary densely planted along with agave, palms, yucca gloriosa and grasses. The beach house itself is surrounded by potted citrus and aromatics and enhanced with climbers. There’s even a paella hut.

Nine green gardens to entice you to Malvern
on any day from 8th-12th May, 2014

So lose yourself amongst these imaginative Show Gardens, remembering their new location near the West Gate, facing the Malvern Hills. And don't forget to book your tickets online to save you time. (You can even now print your tickets once you have booked.)

Inspiration – and hello again!

Come to the Malvern Autumn Show for a day packed with enjoyment

The gap in posting has been occasioned by my brief travels with my husband around Brittany, leading me yet again to realise that inspiration is all around you no matter where you are. And nowhere more so than at the Malvern Showground and the imminent Malvern Autumn Show (Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September).

A nostalgic corner

So much going on – and for me I just love the aspects of nostalgia that pop up around the Show, in celebration of the harvest, autumn gardens – or gardens all year round for that matter, and the opportunity to buy your own part of it. I know what I will be seeking in two weeks’ time and am sure to find what I am looking for. For I have yet to return disappointed over the years I have been visiting, and never know exactly what will take my fancy. Which is of course half the fun.

Plenty of ideas here for a formal garden

Inspiration lies in the Show gardens as well as exhibitors’ stalls. It may not be the garden itself but the little tweaks and juxtaposition of plants and ‘furnishings’ that a clever designer offers. Thinking of how a design will look on different planes, remembering that a garden is for twelve months enjoyment and not just one day. They need to work, and most do.

Decorative kale adds drama

Clever, too, are those experienced designers who make use of a cohesive variety of plants to create a stunning display. Categories not segregated but mixed for leaf shape, height and colour, whether they be ‘edible’ – purpose of the Autumn Show Gardens, or also floral and from the wild. (I so admire the use in France of public spaces with garden annuals along the roadsides attracting pollinating insects – the UK is not good at this, but we could all benefit wildlife by incorporating plants to attract bees and hoverflies into our own patch.)

Pumpkins displayed to perfection

Even our allotments and vegetable plots can be decorative; we spend so much time tending them, so why not ‘think display’ – add a scarecrow with a difference, or a willow structure, or anything that you will enjoy whilst out their on your knees thinning and weeding. Take your camera to the Show if you don’t already do so, and record what you see to act as a reminder.

Taking photos is always enjoyable - keep your eyes open 
and camera at the ready

Have a bit of fun with your imagery! No two Shows are the same and creating a photographic record means you will not forget your day out. Build your own library. Photographs will remind you of those aspects that inspired you; jumping-off points from which to broaden your gardening horizons. Enjoy your day at the Show – and have you yet booked your tickets??

All images used in this post are reproduced 

by courtesy of Stuart Purfield.

Enjoying the 'Good Life'

Happiness at a previous Malvern Autumn Show

From now until the opening of the Autumn Show, I will be previewing the various sections in greater depth. Being the final Show of the year**, and celebrating “taste, grow, harvest, re-live (vintage) and entertainment”, it is an event not to be missed. If you haven’t already jotted the dates in your diary, please do so now, for it is on for only two days, Saturday 28th September and Sunday 29th. Each year the Autumn Show adapts its ‘content’, and shifts some activities from one location to another – and of course, we cannot show you exactly what you will see; the images in this post are taken from the last four Autumn events, but epitomise the spirit of the occasion.

Brassicas are not only edible - they are decorative too

The ‘Good Life Pavilion’ encompasses just that: living the good life in terms of what you can grow and harvest from your own plot, no matter how small. You are bound to be inspired by the Edible Show Gardens which vary significantly in style from year to year. The more gifted and experienced the designer, the greater the spread of planting and the intricacies of the design, as in that of Paul Hervey-Brookes garden in 2009. The brassicas were spectacular and I spent time talking to Paul about how decorative such plants can be – they need not be confined to the vegetable plot! Even the walls were used; edible sweet chestnuts nestling in their spiky cases in mossy crevices.

Talking to Paul Harvey-Brookes is always a pleasure 
(and I do so admire his gardens)

Jollity in the 'Good Life' Pavilion

There are bound to be pumpkins in September – a striking addition to the green of Summer. Maybe not this year; you never know, for themes vary; but everyone involved will have something that will shout ‘colour’. Something similar could well feature in this year’s ‘WI Baking and Craft’ competitions; pumpkin pie, perhaps, or sculpted and carved in readiness for Halloween.

An informal gathering after the hard work is done

A busy little boy

It’s always a delight to see children participating along with the adults. Their gardens will either be entirely fantastical or very down to earth; but what is so very important is that they are learning by doing - getting their hands dirty - which is far more fun than assimilating facts off a page. Most are deadly serious about what they are creating, and love to tell you in great detail about their garden design, and the plants and how they grew them. Gardeners of the future: we all have to start somewhere so when you visit this year's Show, do make a point of seeking out what the youngsters are up to.

A chic and conceptual garden in which 75% of plants are edible

Discussing ideas 
with Maria-Luisa Medina

From rural scenarios to something more theatrical, futuristic and perhaps urban chic. Such a very clever interpretation which was heavily influenced by the Mediterranean background of the designer, Maria-Luisa Medina - the winner in 2010 of the prestigious ‘Chris Beardshaw Mentoring Scholarship’.

Chris commented at the time: "We have shown Maria-Luisa the importance of developing a strong design in order to meet a client brief. Too many people begin with a plot and think ‘now what can I do with that space?’ which immediately restricts the creativity of any design." I was able to discuss with Maria-Luisa her conceptual approach: "All the show gardens must have a 75% edible content and it enabled me to introduce my interest and passion for different cultures and flavours.”

Epitomising rural England

Looking figuratively beneath the surface of any Show Garden is always fascinating; and I love that first foray into the 'Good Life Pavilion' each year to see what designers and exhibitors will be offering in the way of ‘grow, harvest and taste’. I’ll be back again next week previewing another aspect of the Show, as more details emerge of what is on offer.

** There is one more Show organised by the Three Counties this year – the Malvern Caravan Show (4th-6th October); the link at the right will take you to the Show website.

Gardens, Garden Design, and more ...

A Show Garden from a previous year, peaceful and naturalistic

As the Malvern Spring Gardening Show approaches ever nearer (only four weeks away now), advance information flows thick and fast. Spring really does seem to be unfolding, though last week when I was at the Showground for the fantastic ‘CountryTastic’ it was so cold (with snow on the hills), it was hard to believe that all would be transformed come Thursday 9th May. But it will be.

Bicycles are 'in' (read on)

Knowing how much readers enjoy looking at Show Gardens, and pulling them apart, or disagreeing with the judges’ opinions(!) - I trawled through the Show image archives for gardens from the past that really inspired me for one reason and another. You will not see any of these designs at this year’s show, of course, but news of what is on offer arrives almost daily in my inbox.

A nostalgic planting - this reminds me of childhood

First – and a first for Malvern - the Malvern Spring Gardening Show has teamed up with the Cotswold Gardening School to offer gardening enthusiasts the chance to win a fantastic 'Introduction to Garden Design' or ‘Planting Day’ course at the school. This superb opportunity is only open to visitors who pre-book their tickets (saves £s on ticket prices anyway). You will have the chance of winning one of five day courses and there will also be another set of five Planting Day courses up for grabs for anyone signing up to the Three Counties Showground e-newsletters. What are you waiting for?

You could happily sit all day in this garden

As for an update on the Show Gardens: The 2012 Olympics has had a considerable impact on gardening. Of the 14 show gardens this year, 50% have a sporting theme whilst all of them mirror the naturalistic planting in the London Olympic Park; a must for those gardeners keen to keep ahead of horticultural trends.

Equally inviting

THEMES are varied, though Sport – particularly cycling – is predominant taking inspiration both from Team GB’s cycling success as well as this year’s Tour de France, which celebrates its 100th anniversary. Sustainability, up-cycling and the environment continue to be popular themes with a natural burial site and solar paving the subject of a further two gardens. One of the show gardens pays tribute to the beloved Timelord complete with Dalek, for this year is the 50th anniversary of the cult TV programme, Dr Who.

A touch of quirkiness, and wild flowers, too.

Naturalistic planting is common to all of the gardens; herbs, vegetables and fruit trees are no longer segregated but feature within flowerbeds and throughout the gardens themselves. Formal trees and topiary provide strong, architectural lines in many of the gardens. Grasses are popular, too, whether they have an English woodland or Mediterranean theme to them. Herbs, especially lavender and those that provide scent, are much in evidence. Edible flowers, such as calendula and courgette blossoms – anything which looks and tastes good will be a challenge, and salad plants happily grow in flowerbeds alongside more formal planting.

Such fun!

You will find inspiration all around you in all the Show Gardens. And to further whet your appetite, the newly designed (for 2013) Malvern Spring Gardening Show website goes from strength to strength, so keep checking it every day, or you might miss something truly intriguing.

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

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

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