As we approach the height of summer, we embrace a change of pace and welcome a new set of plants at Furzey Gardens.
A stop at the cottage garden is a must this month as hollyhocks, foxgloves, dahlias and a vibrant collection of wildflowers create a colourful canvas to welcome visitors as you arrive. Look out for poppies, nasturtium and gerbera too. Bumblebees and honeybees are enjoying a banquet of pollen and nectar and are busy visiting the wide variety of flowers on display.
It is also well worth visiting the centenary meadow at the bottom of the garden and walking through and over the new wooden bridge. Wildflowers are blooming across the meadow and it is a tranquil location to get a different perspective on the garden. Butterflies, bees and a wide variety of insects are taking full advantage of the meadow grass and wildflowers.
Poppies provide a blast of colour in the cottage garden
As you take a stroll around the gardens this month there are some interesting trees and shrubs to look out for.
The first of these is the Catalpa bignonioides which stands proudly on the top lawn just as you check-in. Also known as the Indian bean tree, this tree has large bright green leaves with clusters of white flowers with yellow and purple blotches bursting to life in July.
Then, as you head off round the gardens look out for another variety of Catalpa opposite the entrance to Typhoon Tower. Catalpa Ovalta has smaller leaves and flowers, but it boasts a beautiful soap like aroma which fills the air.
Before this though take a moment to enjoy one of our standout sights this month. As you pass the Giants Table, towering above us at about 40ft, is the Eucryphia. It was planted in the 1930’s and usually by the end of July is covered with big white flowers, quite a breath-taking sight. We are also sure you won’t fail to notice that it is particularly popular with our bee population as they go about their business of collecting pollen.
Catalpa bignonioides and flowers of the Eucryphia
Down at the lake our waterlilies are beginning to flower and look wonderful in the sunshine. You can while away many minutes watching dragonflies as they dart across the water and if you are lucky you may see some other visitors enjoying the delights this watery world has to offer.
Waterlilies basking in the sunshine and the brilliant colour of Astilbe japonica in the sunshine
Finally as you walk back up the the tea rooms, another burst of colour will catch your eye. The gorgeous sight of Astilbe japonica against the lush green background is just perfect on any day, but when the sun shines the colour really does stand out.
We hope to see you at the gardens soon – the tea rooms are offering a great range of cakes and don’t miss a treat for the kids at the end of July when Squashbox Theatre bring a their unique performance of ‘Tales from the Trees‘ to Furzey Gardens.
We look forward to seeing you. Book your visit.