The Beth Chatto Gardens.

On one of the most beautiful days of the month, and entirely out of the blue, came a chance to visit The Beth Chatto Gardens. Andy of Hyde Hall's Queen Mother Garden invited me along as he picked up a few plants from their nursery, patiently allowing me to dash around taking photos and answering my questions on the road home.

As all who have visited the place or are aware of its story know, this is a very special garden. What I admire most about it is that for all its international recognition and awards, it remains entirely personal to one lady and her family. She took this land from nothing, firmly chose her style to create a sense of identity, and selected species which would last. Being borne of one vision and one unique philosophy, a satisfying conviction radiates throughout the garden. Moreover, because it is a good vision and a good philosophy, one doesn't have to be a Chatto to take pleasure in the place. This will certainly inspire my principles as a gardener.