The Dorothy Clive Garden in March

We returned to the Dorothy Clive Garden late in March to see what the early spring month presented to us. Our first view across the garden showed little change in fact so we hoped for more signs of seasonal progress elsewhere throughout the garden.

Last time we visited there was a wildlife activity going on and once again we had timed our visit to coincide with a special event, a Rare Plant Fair.

 

As we made our way in search of our usual coffee and cake we passed the developing area we found on our last visit. The area had been further cleared and a perimeter wall rebuilt. Perhaps on our next visit we may be able to work out what is being constructed.

 

As we walked along the woodland path skirting around the top edge of the Dingle Garden we followed sinuous grass tracks through naturalised golden daffodils.

  

Dropping into the Dingle itself we discovered the blooms of Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Prunus in the shade beneath the tall evergreen trees.

     

Beneath the Rhododendron shrubs small blue flowered bulbous plants shone jewel-like on the dingle floor.

We were looking forward seeing the new Winter Garden again as we were so impressed with it on our last visit. Our first views encouraged us to look closer.

 

We enjoyed both the flowers and foliage of the new plantings. This area will be such a good winter garden in the years to come. We look forward to seeing it develop.

       

We emerged from the Winter Garden and wandered around the front of the tea shop to explore the sloping areas of the garden.

 

The Camellia Walk was at last showing lots more blooms but neither of us particularly like them. I include a couple of shots for those who do!

The views down to the pond through the scree area showed great variations in colour and texture but many of the shrubs still remained totally leafless. 

 

Within the borders in the sloping part of the gardens there were points of colour from shrubs and herbaceous plants.

 

Among these plants we discovered promises of more to come. Perhaps when we next return these buds will be fully open leaves and flowers. We can’t wait to return!