Synopsis
The planting of a deep bed of Hakonechloa macra encircles both the old and new part of the building creating the illusion of a soft cushion upon which the house has settled. Bright green in the summer turning to a rich copper tone in the winter, this plant was selected for its extended period of interest, especially in the winter and autumn months, also providing a unifying boundary.
The walled garden which serves as counterpoint to the wide-open parkland to the front of the property has been transformed into a secluded and relaxing space and carved into three distinct areas.
A grid of rectangular beds is planted with a uniform selection of plants in each. Rodgersia podophylla, Selinum wallichianum, Epimediums and Hostas underplant the striking and quirky cloud pruned Hornbeam all planted at slightly different positions in their beds.
The long reflective lily pond draws the sky into the space and is flanked by a deep bed planted with Molinina caerulea en masse which turns into a striking golden carpet in the autumn.
On the other side of the pond is an area densely planted with a range of perennials and grasses all chosen for their skeletal forms and interesting seeds heads in the autumn and winter. Stipa, Calamagrostis and Panicum are planted closely with Baptisia and Euphorbias, creating a vibrant tapestry of colours in the summer.
This feature however, captures the garden at Cogshall Grange in early December with an endless array of coppery brown and golden hues and textures proving how beautiful and interesting plants and gardens that have been designed with autumn and winter in mind can be.
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