Trip to Ashwood Nurseries

On 21st May an intrepid group of members and guests decided to ignore the terrible weather forecast and make the trip to Ashwood Nurseries, our first BRHS outing since Bluebell Nurseries in 2019!

The weather turned out to be not as bad as expected, which was a bonus, as was the unexpected introductory talk from John Massey, the owner, accompanied by his very friendly Border Collies! John then accompanied us round the gardens, sharing his very extensive knowledge and some amusing anecdotes about Christopher Lloyd!

The gardens are extensive, and beautifully planted to provide interest throughout the seasons. We admired the use of unusual conifers and clipped and cloud-pruned shrubs to provide shape and structure in the winter, interspersed with bulbs and perennials yet to give colour in the summer. Although only 25 years old, it seemed very mature and natural. We appreciated the extensive use of plant labels throughout, as it is so frustrating spotting an unusual plant that you can’t identify. There was also a judicious use of sculptures throughout the garden to enhance the planting, and these were carefully placed to look appropriate to the setting, such as a pair of swans next to the canal, and a family of ducklings next to the pond. Other features are a dramatic stumpery planted with many ferns just unfurling, and an unusual tufa garden, apparently sourced from volcanic rocks in Mold!

The whole garden is testament to the knowledge and care taken by John and the gardeners, and is worthy of its reputation. Despite the occasional raindrop, we all enjoyed it so much and felt it was such tonic after the year we have had to be able to get out in the fresh air and enjoy such a beautiful place!