Notes from the Chic Teak Garden

Welcome back to the Chic Teak Garden, where nature's melody continues to unfold. As we step into late spring, let us revisit the enchanting world of this extraordinary garden. We have witnessed the fading of winter blooms—the cyclamen, snowdrops, and daffodils—which are now long forgotten. Seamlessly following them were the primroses and bluebells, both in our garden and woods. 

Bluebells

And then, the newly introduced tulips graced us with their radiant presence, infusing the landscape with a kaleidoscope of hues.

Now, as late spring arrives, the Chic Teak Garden prepares for the next phase of its glorious transformation. It is time for the verdant green of the pampered lawn, surrounded by numerous flowering shrubs and perennial ground cover in the borders. And, of course, the copper beach, now in full leaf, will provide shade as summer arrives. All of these elements bring new life, colour, and vibrancy after the long winter.

The garden has received significant care and attention during the autumn, late winter, and early spring months. The lawn was treated with lawn sand and fertilizer, resulting in an inviting, lush, green carpet.

Under new management, the focus has shifted to the pruning of shrubs at the correct time, typically after flowering, rather than merely trimming and shaping. This rejuvenating process has allowed the shrubs to flourish, with vibrant and abundant new growth. Many of them are now in flower, while others are laden with buds, ready to reveal their magnificent floral beauty as summer progresses.

Hard pruned Rhododendrons 

The Hostas, now in full leaf, have been thoughtfully split and spread to new areas, adding texture and depth to shady and moist corners of the garden. 

Hostas

Speaking of hostas, which were split last autumn, now is the perfect time to spread cyclamen to new shady areas that would benefit from winter ground cover. Move them as clumps with soil, and they will quickly colonize the new area.

The garden has many beautiful plants showing themselves at this time of the year, but there are a few particularly worthy of mention.

The Wisteria, recently a magnificent spectacle of mauve florets on the front of the period farmhouse, is now gently fading. 

Wisteria

A few early roses have emerged, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the floral wonders yet to come.

Early Roses

Our Bridal Wreath Spirea, a true crown jewel, has burst into full bloom, adorning the garden with its delicate flowers on arching branches. Its graceful presence is a testament to nature's ability to captivate and inspire.

Bridal Wreath Spirella 

Another shrub in our garden, the Viburnum Plicatum, is also in full flower, boasting beautiful white blossoms.

Viburnum Picatum

Our Weigelias are in full bloom, effortlessly attracting the eye 

Weigelia

Lastly our lilacs, which this year are particularly spectacular, both white, pink and mauve.

Lilac

As we bid farewell to the Chic Teak Garden for now, we leave behind a landscape that has undergone a miraculous transformation. From the fading memories of early spring blooms to the exuberance of late spring, this garden continues to evolve, delighting all who venture within its embrace. Let the Chic Teak Garden remind us of the wonder of nature, which brings peace, tranquillity, and a variety of views and moods in our busy world.