Head Gardener's Notes: Early Summer 2026

Early Summer has arrived and with it, a spell of very hot weather!

With bursts of heavy downpours preceding the heatwave, our gardens received the most ideal boost to encourage the flowers to bloom. On the Jubilee Walk, a wonderful mix of texture and colour has flowered adding vibrancy to the beds thanks to its mix of lupins, poppies, and collection of ground covering plants.

Just a short stroll from the Jubilee Walk, the Blue and Yellow Border has come alive. 

Sitting beneath the tortoise terrace which is framed by climbing roses, the Blue and Yellow Border was created to reflect the colours of the Sidney family crest. Home to a mixture of herbaceous plants including alliums and irises, the border is looking splendid at the moment.

At the time of writing the peonies along the 100 metre long Peony Border (the longest of its kind in the UK) were at their peak, hurried along by very wet weather, followed by very hot weather. The problem now is that the same hot weather that encouraged the bloom, may be what ends it quickly as the flowers begin to wilt in the hot sun, likely how many of us are also feeling!

Still yet to hit their stride are some of the 3,500 roses to be found across the gardens, including those of the Union Flag Garden which usually bloom mid-late summer. Once they do, the incredible design made from the red Times Rose, the white Rosa Kent, and the blue lavender will be more than worth scheduling a visit to come and see. Make sure you take it in properly by walking up the mound in the Union Flag Garden which is surrounded by pink Rosy Cushion roses which you will notice is a particular favourite for pollen-seeking bees.

Elsewhere in the Nut Garden the central wooden pavilion will support some climbing vines soon, as the clematis and roses begin to make an appearance.

Summer in the gardens brings about a combination of high activity for birds, insects, plants and of course, the gardening team. We need to mow more frequently, the growth of weeds is accelerated so we spend much more time in amongst the borders and beds, all while preparing planting and plans for the next season.

During your visit, if you have any questions about the gardens or the work we’re doing please do ask!

Tony Wiseman, Head Gardener

May 2026