| UK 2002 Index | Calendar |
CROSTON GARDENS

Most of us were excited to get going on this adventure because it would be our first exposure to the English Landscape. Our first obstacle was getting there. After an hours wait and a little push, we were able to get on our way. Destination: Croston!

Croston is located approximately 20 minutes to the West of Myerscough College. The "Open Gardens 2002" tour started at the churchof St. Michael and All Angels, pictured above. A cross erected in front of the church,, gave the town its name. The community was featuring 15 of their gardens to the public in order to benefit local schools.

The gardens shown are a good representation of middle class suburban and country landscapes. Most of these gardens included herbaceous borders that are lush with colorful foliage and flowers. Some of the plants in bloom were lupines, 'Johnson's Blue' geraniums, Lady's mantle, peonies, roses daisies and dianthus. The flowers were accented by using foliages such as, hosta, red barberry and various conifers. Mixed borders commonly included dwarf conifers.

Along with the popular perennial border, the designs of the small suburban lots included seating areas, lawns, water features and sometimes a complete kitchen garden. These small (1/8 -1/4 acre) lots were stunning in the variety and numbers of plant materials utilized. Most were neatly organized to provide aesthetically pleasing designs, revealing lifestyles and personalities. Unobtrusive walls created a series of rooms linking individual gardens. We saw secret container gardens under the pines, hedges camouflaging compost areas and interesting transitions between garden themes. Overall the community of Croston was very sophisticated in their landscaping approaches. We came away feeling of inspired to have the same in our neighborhoods in the USA.

Pictured to the left is an example of a serene seating area. Above right, Adam contemplates the beauty and wonder of Phlomis russelaria.

Kate & Nancy
| UK 2002 Index | Calendar |