This garden is in Devon on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, surrounded by open moorland and fields. Exposed conditions demand resilient planting without sacrificing colour or structure. It needed to feel like a garden, full of colourful planting.
Large terraces built by Robin Weldon, had been built using local stone as part of the house extension. The long borders are a mix of flowering perennials, grasses and Yew (Taxus baccata) topiary and evergreens. Having the beds at different heights makes for a dramatic planting scheme that complements the beautiful stonework.
Areas of lawn were reduced near the house and replaced with large planting beds. A circular seating area with climbers on swags and a simple reclaimed water trough makes the perfect focal point at the top of the garden. New multi-stemmed trees surround this, which in time will grow out to form a cosy nook that has outstanding views across Dartmoor.
New Beech (Fagus sylvatica) hedge planting will be going in over winter to create a garden boundary without disturbing any views. This will help to make the space feel like a garden and further protect the planting. The key to garden design and planting on Dartmoor is choosing species that will be both resilient to the harsh weather and still deliver a flower-filled display.
If you’re planning a garden in Devon and need an experienced garden designer, get in touch to talk through your project.
