Formal Garden Adjoining the woodland garden, and complementing it, is the formal garden. Developed by Alan with architect John Trengrove, this area has a different style altogether with extensive use of hedging to create formal vistas and enclosures. Once again, however, attention to detail and immaculate maintenance make this area a delight and an education.
A long walk, reminiscent of those at the English garden Hidcote Manor, runs along one side, a pair of impressive gateposts mark one end and an unusual deep blue-painted seat the other. Perennial borders contain a mass of flowers in summer. Gardening with herbaceous perennials on this scale is quite a feat. Formal elements, each within a bay of hedging, mark the progression of the walk, and provide interest and relief to the planting.
A series of formal garden rooms are entered from the walk, the first built around an old church, incorporated into the garden in 1999 and the scene of many weddings and celebrations.
The next room contains box-hedge edged beds of roses, planted on variety to a bed for maximum impact. In midsummer these are especially impressive.
A formal, more minimalist garden comprising a grid of specimen trees before you encounter the more naturally styled area alongside the stream once again. You can climb the steps to the belvedere; gaining a view across the formal garden to the church.
Planting and Inspiration Plant combinations through the garden are carefully thought out, but look so natural and 'right' that it is easy to overlook the care with which each has been selected and sited in the overall scheme. The standard of maintenance is impressive under any circunstances, especially when you leant that Alan maintains it almost with help, as well as running the nursery business alongside (where you can buy many of the desirable, 'must-have' plants in the garden).
Trott's Garden offers many ideas and inspiring plant combinations, and it will introduce you to many trees and plants not commonly found. It is a garden not to be missed.
Open - Monday to Saturday between 9.00am to 4.30pm (Sundays by appointment only) from 1 September to 30 May.
Contact Tel +64 (3) 308 9530; Fax +64 (3) 308 8568; Email: trottsgarden@hotmail.com
The information here is believed to be correct but changes do occur. There may be closures and changes to times of opening. Entrance fees may vary without notice. bestgardening.com cannot take any responsibility for any errors, changes or omissions. Visitors travelling a distance to visit a garden are advised to check opening times with the owners before setting out.
