Forty two Gardening Club members and friends set off for the Ashwood Nurseries in Kingswinford in the West Midlands. It was a sunny day, but showers were forecast. After an hour and a half in the coach we were glad of a coffee break before we met John, whose garden is attached to the nurseries. He led us round to a wide grassy area and pointed to a passing long boat on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal which provided a border for the garden and protection from invading deer. John delighted us with his deep knowledge of the plants, the plan to have colour in his garden throughout the year and his delightful sense of humour. he had many sculptures, commisioned and placed in appropriate areas but emphasised how much of the planting was to some extend affected by chance or mistake. It was widely agreed that it was one of the very best gardens we had ever seen and John was one of the most knowledgeable and entertaining hosts.
After a late lunch and a tour of the nurseries members loaded the coach with a wide range of plants they had purchased from a very healthy and varied collection.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |