Abbey Wood Gardens near Delamere Cheshire

[shelagh]

Brian and I enjoy visiting gardens.  We first went to Abbey Wood quite late last year after it was featured on our local television news programme and promised ourselves a return visit earlier in the season.

The garden is split into several sections.  Formal, more recent planting incorporating a lot of grasses and perennials and a wonderful garden/nursery bed area.

I haven't got all the names but I hope you get a good idea of what there is to see.

Oh it also has a lovely Café.

[shelagh]

The Buddleja alternifolia shown above was a wonderful colour with gracefully arching branches but unfortunately it was in the middle of a bed so I couldn't get closer.

The second flower is one I don't know but it has a fascinating habit that almost seems to unzip as the flowers come out.

[shelagh]

The Peony bed was in the Kitchen garden area.

The naming of the Sinocalycanthus is due to help from Forumists.

It is a long time since I saw Platycerium grande or Stags Horn Fern but they are trying to establish it in the garden.

[shelagh]

The garden covers several acres and we were chatting to the Head gardener who said there are just 3 in the team who look after it.

It was a very hot day and after walking all round I was very happy to see this wonderful bench.

[Carolyn]

The second flower is one I don't know but it has a fascinating habit that almost seems to unzip as the flowers come out.

Perhaps not enough detail in the photo, but could it be Phacelia?

[shelagh]

I think you are right Carolyn.  Well spotted. Thanks.