The Beechgrove Garden 2023 episode 24 – As the golden rays of summer bathe the land, Beechgrove Garden doesn’t merely bask in the warmth; it thrives, pulsating with life and vibrant energy. Every inch of this horticultural haven reflects a deeply rooted passion for planting and gardening techniques that not only beautify the surroundings but also act as life-support systems for our invaluable local wildlife. In their quest to enhance this natural symphony, the gardeners at Beechgrove have been nothing short of ingenious. They’ve lovingly woven a diverse range of pollinator-friendly plants into the landscape. The result? A mesmerizing mosaic of hues and scents that stretch as far as the eye can see, beckoning bees, butterflies, and birds to partake in nature’s dance.
But amidst this sprawling garden, there exists a unique sanctuary. This specially designated area has been designed with great care and precision, every plant chosen for its ability to provide refuge and sustenance to the creatures that call Beechgrove home. It’s here that Carole, a botanical virtuoso with an infectious zeal for all things green, ventures regularly. With a keen eye, she observes the subtle transformations, reveling in the burgeoning growth and ever-evolving dynamics of this microcosm.
By her side, George Anderson, the garden’s maestro, marries art and science in his approach. With years of experience tucked under his belt, he’s always poised to impart wisdom, guiding the garden through its seasonal rhythms. Today, he’s on a mission to prune and shape, ensuring that Beechgrove remains not just a sight for sore eyes, but a thriving, functional ecosystem.
Yet, the wonders of Beechgrove are not the only treasures to be discovered. Venture further, and you’ll find yourself on a journey to the scenic isle of Skye. Here, amidst the breathtaking vistas, lies a hidden gem: a community garden in the heart of Portree. It’s more than just a garden; it’s a living testament to the power of collective passion, where every plant tells a story of community spirit and shared dreams.
The Beechgrove Garden 2023 episode 24
As the golden rays of summer bathe the land, Beechgrove Garden doesn’t merely bask in the warmth; it thrives, pulsating with life and vibrant energy. Every inch of this horticultural haven reflects a deeply rooted passion for planting and gardening techniques that not only beautify the surroundings but also act as life-support systems for our invaluable local wildlife.
In their quest to enhance this natural symphony, the gardeners at Beechgrove have been nothing short of ingenious. They’ve lovingly woven a diverse range of pollinator-friendly plants into the landscape. The result? A mesmerizing mosaic of hues and scents that stretch as far as the eye can see, beckoning bees, butterflies, and birds to partake in nature’s dance.
But amidst this sprawling garden, there exists a unique sanctuary. This specially designated area has been designed with great care and precision, every plant chosen for its ability to provide refuge and sustenance to the creatures that call Beechgrove home. It’s here that Carole, a botanical virtuoso with an infectious zeal for all things green, ventures regularly. With a keen eye, she observes the subtle transformations, reveling in the burgeoning growth and ever-evolving dynamics of this microcosm.
By her side, George Anderson, the garden’s maestro, marries art and science in his approach. With years of experience tucked under his belt, he’s always poised to impart wisdom, guiding the garden through its seasonal rhythms. Today, he’s on a mission to prune and shape, ensuring that Beechgrove remains not just a sight for sore eyes, but a thriving, functional ecosystem.
Yet, the wonders of Beechgrove are not the only treasures to be discovered. Venture further, and you’ll find yourself on a journey to the scenic isle of Skye. Here, amidst the breathtaking vistas, lies a hidden gem: a community garden in the heart of Portree. It’s more than just a garden; it’s a living testament to the power of collective passion, where every plant tells a story of community spirit and shared dreams.
A Horticultural Haven
Beechgrove Garden is no ordinary garden. Spanning over 20 acres in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, it is a horticultural haven and filming location for the long-running BBC gardening television program of the same name. First established in 1978, Beechgrove has evolved over the decades into an unparalleled example of garden design, filled with innovative features and meticulous plantings. From the Japanese Garden’s graceful pagoda to the Chinese Garden’s serpentine walkway, Beechgrove encompasses a diverse array of garden styles that both educate and inspire. At its heart remains a profound respect for the natural world and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
What is the history of Beechgrove Garden?
Beechgrove Garden owes its existence to Scots horticulturist George Barron. In 1978, Barron donated part of the grounds of his 19th century Beechgrove House to BBC Scotland as a filming location for a new gardening program. From these humble beginnings, the site grew exponentially under the green thumbs of the show’s presenters. They introduced innovative landscaping and design elements ranging from a sprawling rock garden to an idyllic wildlife pond. Now in its 37th season, the show continues to broadcast weekly gardening advice from Beechgrove’s vibrant grounds. The garden remains a living legacy to Barron’s generosity and the BBC team’s tireless efforts.
Where is Beechgrove Garden located?
Tucked away in rural Aberdeenshire, Beechgrove Garden can be found just west of Bridge of Don and a few miles north of Aberdeen city centre. Specifically, it is situated on the grounds of the historic Beechgrove House and estate, located at 29 Beechgrove Terrace. Thanks to its easily accessible position near major roads, the garden welcomes over 20,000 visitors annually. Those travelling by public transport can take the bus from Aberdeen city centre or nearby Dyce railway station. Avid gardeners flock from across Scotland and beyond to experience the horticultural haven for themselves.
What can I see at Beechgrove Garden?
At Beechgrove, the sights are as variegated as the plant life. The sprawling grounds encompass ornamental areas showcasing every gardening style imaginable. Wander past vibrant herbaceous borders, rose gardens and rockeries. Linger in aquatic zones filled with lily pads, rushes and weeping willows.Discover alpine screes, heather beds, woodland walkways and wildflower meadows. Marvel at structural elements like arching vinery frames, stone walls and a classically inspired temple. Of course, the real stars are the thousands of plant varieties themselves, chosen for year-round interest and arranged with artistry. With so much to explore, visitors are spoilt for choice.
A Diverse Range of Pollinator-Friendly Plants
Amongst the floral finery of Beechgrove Garden, the discerning eye may notice that many of the plants share a common theme – they are pollinator-friendly varieties which help attract and sustain essential pollinating species like bees, butterflies, hoverflies and other insects. This is no coincidence. The gardeners have intentionally incorporated a diverse range of pollinator-friendly plants into the garden’s landscape. The benefits are twofold – the plants enhance the beauty of the gardens with their colorful flowers and heady scents, while also supporting wildlife and the ecosystem. It’s a simple yet ingenious synergy.
What are pollinator-friendly plants?
Pollinator-friendly plants are varieties that provide nectar, pollen, or habitat to attract and nourish pollinators. Flowering annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and vines can all be pollinator-friendly if they offer the elements pollinators need – namely, accessible pollen and nectar. Some great examples include lavender, catmint, cosmos, sunflowers, asters, wild primrose, coneflower, lamb’s ear, lupine and stonecrop. Choosing pollinator-friendly plants with overlapping blooming periods ensures nourishment all season long. The key is diversity, so the wider the variety, the better.
How do pollinator-friendly plants benefit the environment?
Providing pollinator-friendly plants helps sustain essential pollinator populations that are vital for our ecosystems but under threat from habitat loss, pesticides and disease. With shelter, nourishment and breeding sites, pollinator numbers can flourish. Robust pollinator populations then foster biodiversity and support plant reproduction through cross-pollination. This is crucial for agricultural crops and native plant communities. Healthy native pollinators even support food production for birds, bats and other wildlife up the food chain. So these small gardens heroes have an outsized ecological impact.
Where can I buy pollinator-friendly plants?
The good news is pollinator-friendly plants are increasingly available. Local nurseries are natural go-to choices, especially those with specific pollinator-friendly sections. Big box stores and hardware shops now dedicate shelf space too. For the widest selection, check out online specialty nurseries focusing just on pollinator-friendly options. Look too for plant tags or signage highlighting pollinator-friendly choices. Some nurseries now advertise this feature clearly. For the most convenience, companies like American Meadows, High Country Gardens, and Monarch Watch even sell attractively packaged pollinator seed mixes for establishing bee and butterfly-friendly habitats with ease.
Carole Baxter: Botanical Virtuoso
Among the talented team of gardening experts that tend the grounds of Beechgrove is none other than Carole Baxter. As an avid plantswoman and self-proclaimed “galanthophile”, Carole brings a deep passion for plants to her role as presenter. She first joined the Beechgrove team in 2016 and has since endeared herself to viewers with her warm Scottish accent and infectious enthusiasm for all things botanical. Her specialized knowledge encompasses everything from productive fruit and veg to whimsical ornamentals.
Who is Carole Baxter?
Hailing from rural Perthshire, Carole Baxter discovered her green thumb early in childhood thanks to time spent in her grandparents’ large garden. She went on to study garden design and horticulture before working for the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh. With decades of hands-on gardening experience, her impressive resume includes managing expansive country house gardens across Scotland. Before joining Beechgrove, she ran her own successful garden design consultancy for 23 years. Her career has been driven by a lifelong joy for nurturing plants and bringing gardens to life.
What is Carole Baxter’s role at Beechgrove Garden?
As a horticultural presenter, Carole shares handy gardening advice and engages in planting projects on-site at Beechgrove. She has been instrumental in developing several areas of the garden, including the ornamental borders. Her specialties include creating stunning perennial combinations, growing tasty fruit and veg, and incorporating unusual plant varieties. Each week, audiences benefit from Carole’s seasoned gardening know-how and obvious passion. Her affable nature also shines through in her interactions with visitors on the Beechgrove Garden tours she helps lead.
What are Carole Baxter’s favorite plants?
A galanthophile at heart, Carole professes a deep affection for snowdrops, which hold pride of place in her own garden. Her plant picks at Beechgrove also reveal her penchant for pollinator-friendly varieties like catmint, geraniums, honeysuckle, and alliums. She advocates growing edibles too, favoring rhubarb, blueberries, and rather hot chili peppers. She also loves flowering shrubs and trees, like viburnum, abelia, and the beautifully-scented Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’. When asked outright, she simply says her favorite plants are always “whatever happens to be in flower” at the moment.
George Anderson: The Garden Maestro
What Bach is to baroque music and Einstein is to physics, George Anderson is to the world of gardening – a true maestro. As one of Beechgrove Garden’s head presenters for over 33 years, George has shared his horticultural mastery and warm wit with generations of viewers. His depth of knowledge combined with a knack for clear instruction makes gardens flourish under his guidance.
Who is George Anderson?
Hailing from nearby Arbroath, George originally studied engineering before finding his true vocation in horticulture. He honed his skills at the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens before tackling garden design projects spanning Europe. Drawn back to his native Scotland, he began work as a presenter on Beechgrove in 1978 and never left. His passion for imparting garden knowledge led him to author over 20 books and host garden tours worldwide. After a remarkable 50 years in horticulture, retirement still seems a distant prospect thanks to his tireless green thumb.
What is George Anderson’s role at Beechgrove Garden?
As the show’s longest-standing presenter, George lends continuity and context to Beechgrove. His responsibilities range from creating new garden areas like the bonsai zone to maintaining mature sites like the rock garden. Sharing wisdom honed over decades, he advises on best practices for essential garden tasks like planting, pruning, pest control and more. His calm, instructive style makes absorbing gardening techniques a breeze. Come rain or shine, George traverses the grounds, fine-tuning the ornamental displays and productively pottering amongst the plants.
What are George Anderson’s favorite gardening tips?
When dispensing his treasured gardening tips, George emphasizes horticultural basics like soil health and proper plant selection. He advocates techniques that work with nature, like water-wise gardening and harnessing companion planting. As an avid organic gardener, composting and avoiding pesticides are priorities for him. Above all, George stresses not complicating gardening unnecessarily. He believes in working with plants’ natural tendencies and exercising patience. As he always says, by letting the gardeners that came before you guide you, gardening need not be difficult at all.
A Wildlife-Friendly Sanctuary
Tucked within the rambling Beechgrove grounds lies a rather special corner – the wildlife sanctuary. Brimming with bee balm, sunflowers, asters and other pollinator-magnets, this plot acts as a vital refuge for Beechgrove’s smallest residents and visitors. Its naturalistic plantings and laissez-faire landscaping provide essential habitat for insects, birds and small mammals. As a designated wildlife zone, it receives special care and consideration from the gardeners. Here, the focus shifts from visual aesthetics to creating an ecologically nurturing space.
What is wildlife-friendly planting?
Wildlife-friendly planting refers to choosing and arranging plants specifically to create inviting habitats for local wildlife. To attract diverse species, the key is providing food, water, shelter and places to rear young. Native plants suited to the locale are ideal. Flowers rich in nectar and pollen draw in bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Berries and seeds nourish birds and small mammals. Grasses, shrubs and trees provide important shelter and nesting sites. Water sources like ponds or simple dishes also supplement the habitat. Allowing vegetation to grow naturally enhances its ecological benefits.
How can I create a wildlife-friendly garden?
Transforming even a small garden into a wildlife haven is very achievable. Provide a water source like a shallow bird bath or pond. Incorporate native flowering plants, trees and shrubs to cater to local species. Allow areas of long grass and leaf litter to accumulate for shelter. Add nesting boxes and keep brush piles. Avoid pesticides and artificial fertilizers which can leach into waterways. Most importantly, adopt a relaxed approach of letting nature take its course in designated wildlife zones. Be patient, as habitats evolve over seasons and years as vegetation becomes established.
What are some benefits of wildlife-friendly planting?
Wildlife-friendly gardens confer myriad benefits, both ecological and emotional. They help counter habitat loss from development and agriculture, sustaining biodiversity. They provide food and shelter for struggling native species like bees, bats and birds. They create natural pest control, with predators like ladybugs and bats controlling aphids and mosquitos. For gardeners, they provide endlessly interesting sights like colourful caterpillars or loyal robins. The calming sights and sounds of nature relieve stress. Finally, they inspire the next generation to love and protect local ecosystems. Even small steps make a difference.
A Community Garden in Portree
A longstanding community spirit blooms on the far-off isle of Skye, cultivated by a dedicated team of volunteer gardeners. Nestled between quaint cottages and crofts in the harbour town of Portree lies the island’s thriving community garden. Like Beechgrove, it exists thanks to generous individuals who donated the land, enabling a gemeinschaft vision to take root. The Portree project transformed neglected grounds into a bountiful shared garden that brings people together whilst benefiting the environment.
What is a community garden?
A community garden is a shared green space gardened collectively by a group of people for shared benefit. Community gardens come in all sizes, but most comprise individual allotment plots on a common site. Members typically grow flowers, fruits, vegetables and herbs in their personal plots, gathering for communal work days and social events. The public areas surrounding the allotments often include wildlife habitats, rain gardens, seating and ornamentals. Community gardens aim to foster community spirit, provide green spaces and improve food security.
How do community gardens benefit the community?
Community gardens offer a slate of benefits – ecological as well as social. They provide natural habitats to support local wildlife and biodiversity. They can aid stormwater management through features like raingardens. For gardeners, they enable organic food production and skill sharing. They provide green spaces and places to gather in urban areas with limited parks. Socially, community gardens build community ties, reduce isolation and promote sustainability. Studies show they even reduce crime by improving community bonds and public spaces. Gardens also nurture inter-generational and cross-cultural ties when inclusive to all.
How can I start a community garden?
Starting a new community garden requires dedication but delivers lasting rewards. Begin by surveying potential public sites with the help of local authorities. Once you secure a location through donation or council approval, spread the word to attract volunteer members. Form a planning team to coordinate site preparation like soil improvement and allocation of plots. Fundraise for initial costs like fencing, water access and communal tools. Draft rules for democratic leadership and plot maintenance. Gradually build community ownership through workdays and events. Extend invitations widely to avoid exclusion. With time, effort and enthusiasm, your garden will thrive.
Conclusion
This glimpse into the workings of Beechgrove Garden reveals the immense passion, knowledge and care needed to cultivate a truly vibrant, sustainable garden. By harmonizing aesthetics with ecology, the gardeners enable the space to educate, inspire and support life in all its diversity. The meticulous incorporation of pollinator-friendly plants highlights how even simple choices support ecosystems when made thoughtfully. Guided by veteran horticulturists like Carole and George, the garden continues to evolve gracefully, anchored by years of wisdom. Beechgrove stands as testament to the profound power gardens wield to bring beauty, tranquility and vitality to any environment. Its example, like that of Portree’s community garden, serves as a reminder that wherever there is fertile ground and willing hands, gardens can take root and thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired the creation of Beechgrove Garden?
Beechgrove Garden grew out of Scots horticulturist George Barron’s donation of part of his 19th century Beechgrove House estate to BBC Scotland as a filming location for a new gardening TV program in 1978. The original site has expanded into a horticultural haven.
How can I visit Beechgrove Garden?
Beechgrove Garden welcomes visitors 7 days a week during daylight hours from March to October. It’s located on Beechgrove Terrace in Aberdeenshire, just west of Bridge of Don. Public transport options include buses from Aberdeen city center or Dyce railway station.
What are the main highlights of Beechgrove Garden?
Highlights include ornamental gardens like the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, rose garden, herbaceous borders, rock garden, and temple. Structures like arching vinery frames and stone walls add interest. The biodiverse plant