Gardens of Delight

From a restored cliff top garden to a scented botanical collection, meet some of the Dorset gardeners who have opened their gate for the National Garden Scheme

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Manor House Farm at Ibberton
OWNER & GARDENER: FIONA CLOSIER

Having recently held three family weddings at home, for which I had done a lot of work in the garden, I felt it was a good time to open it to the public and raise money for the charities the NGS supports.

The garden can best be described as country with areas of formality. It is divided into a series of ‘rooms’ with formal yew and beech hedging. It is also wildlife friendly with three ponds. The large spring fed pond was created by the whole family. The ‘pit’ as it was known, was cleared, a causeway built and the spring allowed to naturally fill it. The rough area around it has been planted with grasses, cornus, willow and perennials. It is now home to trout, moorhens, frogs and newts. It is a source of endless fun and learning for my grandchildren, and the perfect place for an evening drink.

Another favourite area is the walled vegetable and flower garden. This was constructed by removing the roof of the old cow barn. The stalls were converted to beds, a decorative pond built and a greenhouse installed. It is my secret sanctuary where new beginnings start with seeds and propagation.

Planting is mostly herbaceous with particular use of grasses around the large pond. The formal topiary and hedging in the rest of the garden contain freeform planting of shrubs, perennials, and occasional annuals. Self-seeding is encouraged where appropriate.

Planting colours are usually similar in tone or complementary to each other. Repetitive planting allows easy transition and cohesion between areas.