Following a May that was on track to be one of the coolest in many years, it ended much warmer, with the incredible heat from the 24th to the 27th reaching at or above 30°C. The gardens have grown strongly despite that unprecedented heat because of the earlier rains (2.3 inches), cool weather, and lots of mulching.

June is the best month to enjoy the roses, of which there are many cultivars throughout the gardens. Malvern Hills is a soft yellow, repeat-flowering rambler beautifully covering the Well House. It is at its best in June and looks stunning when underplanted with violet-blue Geranium Rozanne.

Almost every border within our 14 acres of gardens will be at its best during June. The rose-filled Phelps Garden and the Jocelin Border, full of Rosa ‘Darcey Bussell’ with its profuse deep cherry-red flowers, are further enhanced by the sea of feather grass, Stipa tenuissima.

In the outer gardens, the Wells Border is a mass of colour and interest, with lots of roses, astrantia, day lilies, and much more. The arboretum is full of wildflowers and, if you look carefully, you will find bee and pyramid orchids.

The Community Garden is full of promise and, by the end of the month, we will harvest the first cut flowers and vegetables. Potatoes and broad beans are particularly prolific favourites.

June is a very busy month, and it is important that we keep on top of the weeds, keep the lawns tidy, and cut any hedges and topiary that require attention.

James Cross, Head Gardener

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