An Englishman's Garden Adventures
The Gardens at Rosemary Cottage
These posts document the development of my garden here in West Sussex since I began building them soon after we moved here in 2007.
Gardens within gardens There are several different areas within the overall plot, each with its own character, micro-climate, planting theme and design ethos. You can use the filters below to find posts about each area.
A brand-new dwarf hydrangea from Chelsea, a clever non-invasive Japanese anemone, and an unexpected eBay bargain. After clearing away the duller, sprawling ground covers, I’m plugging the August gap with five sophisticated new shade plants.
A quick tour of the best sights in my April garden. Planting inspiration for early-season interest, colour and form, including plants for different aspects and light levels, along with practical tips.
In this article I detail the new planting plan for phase three of my green roof one year after planting. Low maintenance shrubs provide a variety of colours and textures throughout the year. Plus tips on planting, irrigation and the use of stepping stones.
A sophisticated yet often overlooked Mediterranean shrub, the Chaste tree, or Vitex bush, adds a touch of late-summer elegance to the autumn garden.
Here are five beautiful miniature ferns (10-30cm tall) that I grow in my garden. Each is delightfully delicate, yet surprisingly tough. They are all easy to grow given the right location and conditions.
The summer garden is waking up. Let’s take a look at what is stirring and the promises of warmer days ahead.
Modern roses are low-maintenance floral power-houses, which can contribute so much to the garden. Here’s my experience with twelve beautiful varieties, including shrub roses, patio roses, ramblers and climbers.
The green roof on my garden workshop is now 14 years old, but was in need of some work. Here’s what I did to improve it and make sure it has another 20 years of life in it. Lots of low-maintenance ideas, especially helpful if you are thinking of making your own green-roof or renovating a garden building.
How to get the “wow” factor into your garden. In this post I explain how to apply simple design principles to create a coherent aesthetic throughout your garden.
My Green roof garden was first planted in 2010 then revamped in 2016. At the end of 2023 it’s needing a refresh. What mistakes were made and what lessons can be learned?
A a photo survey of the butterflies, spiders and insects seen in my garden in the last two years. Includes some beautiful shots of common, rare and unusual species. Plus tips on insect photography and identification.
Having neglected my pond for the past decade, it was in desperate need of a some attention. Here’s how I cleaned it out, and how I divided and replanted the water lilies.