Read more from Head Gardener, Tom, following the announcement that we will be re-opening the Gardens to the public from 26 June; and operating Friends-only days 22-25 June.
 

West Dean Gardens Gardener Laura tells us about her plant choice for February: Stachyurus praecox.

To date 'we' have planted the four main clumps in the Parkland; consisting of sweet chestnut, hornbeam, oak and disease resistant elm with a couple of more exotic clumps which comprise of cedar, Liquidambar, pine and purple beech. Head Gardener Tom Brown gives us an update on the new generation of trees being planted at West Dean Gardens this year.

West Dean Gardens Gardener Laura tells us about her plant choice for January: Lachenalia. 

As the end of the year approaches, we look back at highlights and achievements at West Dean Gardens in 2019. 

As we approach the autumn and winter, we have been planning and strategizing for months, putting in place processes to deliver some very exciting projects for the spring/summer 2020. As a Head Gardener, like my predecessor, I’m constantly looking for unusual species and forms to continue to make the tree collection at West Dean something special and unique.

If you are planning to keep on top of your gardening jobs, don't miss the top tips for September from West Dean Gardens' Head Gardener Tom Brown.

Complaining about the heat in February is a rare occurrence but wasn't it joyful to bask in the sun so early this year and at school, half term as well - extra bonus! The above average, seasonal temperature figures were enough to put one into a flat spin under glass though, as spring is a major sowing time and there are many little plants to fuss over. Strong winds have featured too this year so we make sure that glass is closed on windy days to protect it from sudden gusts...

Who would have thought that after the heat and lack of rain of summer 2018 that we almost reach our average of 1100mm by the end of the year? Rainfall is a fascinating business and it's so interesting to see how differently it falls year on year. The River Lavant started flowing in December, which was a bit of a yah- boo to expectation.