Introducing The Island Bed
The Island Bed is a roughly circular border in the middle of the house lawn. Early days saw it planted with rough trees and a huge pampas grass - red dahlias popped up here, there, and everywhere in the gaps. Add the odd red tulip and patches of blue Muscari for spring interest, and that was about that.
The Island Bed - Late Spring
Over the years I've removed Pittosporums and re-dug the curves, filling the Island Bed with shrubs and trees that I like. I've tried to have something interesting from every vantage point on the house lawn, and particularly from the bay window in the house.
I've also thought about the seasons, and naturally I've tried to cram in some favourite roses. In the Island Bed all-comers are welcomed, and room is always made for my latest ideas. Particularly when they involve roses...
Other shrubs to join the interior of the Island Bed include Rhododendrons and Hydrangeas, growing next to my favourite variegated Cornus. One slightly unwelcome guest is the bright orange Alstroemeria, which I am now endeavouring to get rid of. Wish me luck!