Mixed borders for all seasons

Mixed borders was the theme of the March talk for the Frome Selwood Horticulture Society, when Christine Brain, head gardener of the National Trust garden at Barrington Court paid a return visit after 20 years.

“Christine was passionate yet practical about her plants, and shared a lifetime of knowledge gained from her connections with other renowned gardens from Sissinghurst to Great Dixter and many in between.  

“Crossing the channel to Monet’s Garden at Giverney also brought inspiration.  Borders of peonies, crown imperial fritillaria and night-scented stock complemented the oriental poppies, irises and water lilies’, but all required masses of irrigation and a backup nursery.

“Christine recommended the RHS accredited Coleton Fishacre garden in Devon, with its glades, ponds and rare tender plants.  The Diorama “Angels Fishing Rods” and fimbriated poppies made for great texture. Her travel to Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland saw plants suited to the warmth of the Gulf Stream, with borders full of agapanthus, fuchsias, stachys and geranium.  

“The essence of all these mixed borders was to achieve shape, form, texture, – upright and rounded- and colour, which could be enhanced by raising plants up in pots. Creating the effect of rooms, planting shrubs with herbaceous perennials and bulbs were all recommendations to enhance the look and length of enjoyment throughout the seasons.  Christine suggested adding height for an interesting eye line and perennial grasses for texture and movement.  Night time enjoyment could be achieved with white coloured planting which also attracted moths and other pollinating insects, but she warned against too big a colour palate in one border.

“Christine answered questions about Barrington Court and the loss of trees, as well as admitting to her endless fight with bind weed.  After such an interesting talk we felt somewhat binded ourselves as we shared the same problems and pleasures!

“Due to the current corona virus precautions, meetings have all been postponed until further notice as has the annual FSHS Plant Sale in May.  

“We wish all our members and guests and followers comfort in the beauty of plants, and the hope that we will all meet up again soon.  

“The FSHS advises that if any member should need any support during this time to contact Jane Norris on 0777 620 8531.”