.png){kind=logo}
Susan was first introduced to the overgrown moat area in 2021. Undaunted by the task she had signed up to, in the winter Susan and her team set about removing many of the Flag Irises to reveal the stepping stones through the base of the moat. Summer brought Himalayan balsam and suckers from the nearby poplar tree. The planting design for the bank nearest to new decking being installed was installed and we watched with interest to see if the rabbit and deer tolerant selection survived. They did. With client approval, it was full go ahead for clearance of remaining banks, pruning of shrubs and new planting with resident wildlife in mind. The current stage has been to remove some bamboo and plant one end of the moat garden with shrubs and damp loving perennials. During this time we have seen the shallow water level in the moat retreat and return, this project is very much a living mission.
"Susan has worked on my garden for over three years. It is a large plot with historical features which need to be respected as well as a healthy population of rabbits, deer and badgers who bring their own challenges.
The main focus has been a former moat with steep sides and an often marshy base. The area had become very overgrown and neglected and was something of an eyesore by the house. Susan has cleared the area of weeds including challenges such as nettles and bamboo. She also pruned back established shrubs, improving their appearance and uncovered snowdrops and irises amongst others. She has designed and planted a a scheme that provides year round interest and is well adapted to the varying soil conditions and terrain. She has incorporated my personal favourites such as Acer, ferns and peonies with her own suggestions making use of her deep horticultural knowledge.
Susan is professional, highly skilled, and a true problem-solver. If you want a garden that is beautiful, ecologically sound, and built to last, I would recommend her."
- C.R. Chawston, Bedfordshire.