The garden will embody a traditional woodland with many natural woodland plants such as Cornus, Hellebores, Ferns, Foxgloves and Primroses. Narrow bark paths, resembling forest pathways and animal tracks, run alongside stumps and woodpiles providing natural habitats for insects. Beneath the canopy of the trees, dappled light will filter through the leaves to create a calming and captivating outdoor haven, transporting visitors to the British countryside.
“We are pleased to unveil our design for the 2024 Spring Fair. This year, with more focus on woodland and naturalistic planting and cultivated areas, we have created something completely unique in comparison to our usual style,” says Chris Francis, Wholesale and Retail Director of Hillier. “We are looking forward to once again providing inspiration and advice to visitors at the Fair and are excited to be able to share this natural and harmonious woodland we are creating.”
Subtle flowers such as Snakeshead Fritillary, Primrose and Cowslip will surround the garden around the long grassy borders, and Hellebores and Foxgloves will punctuate with blocks of colour to contrast against the green and brown hues of the trees and bark. Under the canopy of large semi-mature trees, visitors will appreciate an array of planting with a variety of different heights, structures and textures to create a dynamic effect.
Hillier was founded in 1864 by Edwin Hillier and remains a family-run nursery with the fifth generation now actively involved in the family business as it continues to grow. The company employs over 750 staff across its nursery, amenity trees and 22 garden centre divisions, and grows over one million plants a year.
The BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair takes at Beaulieu from 3rd to 5th May.