A quick trip to Cornwall for some horticultural inspiration

Traveling to Cornwall from Norfolk is a considerable journey, but one well worth undertaking. This region, blessed by the warming currents of the Atlantic Ocean, boasts an abundance of lush green gardens that evoke a near-tropical paradise. With palms, ferns, and a plethora of native plants, Cornwall offers some of the most inspiring horticultural sights in the UK.

Residents of Cornwall might argue differently, and I must admit, my gardening experience is not rooted there. However, the region's reputation, particularly as a daffodil-growing haven, is renowned. Alongside Lincolnshire, Scotland, and Wales, Cornwall holds its own in the cultivation of these old favourites.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Cornwall is the wildflowers that flourish along its winding, narrow roads. Stone walls, originally built to elevate beech hedgerows, create verdant corridors through the countryside. Many of these beech trees have matured, their lush canopies neatly trimmed by the slow passage of trucks, providing shelter from the strong winds.

Depending on the season, you might be greeted by vibrant displays of Gladiolus byzantinus, foxgloves, and other native plants. Opportunistic navelwort clings to any available surface, adding to the natural tapestry.

As the year progresses, Cornish hedgerows are adorned with the bright orange flowers of Crocosmia. These bulbs are excellent for naturalizing, with dense, grass-like foliage that begins in late spring and persists until autumn. They thrive in challenging, shady, and dry areas, and though they require thinning every few years, their presence is indispensable in my garden.

For those fortunate enough to have water features in their gardens, Gunnera makes an impressive backdrop. Pairing it with Zantedeschia at the water’s edge creates a striking contrast with its smooth, angular leaves and bright white spathes.

Cornwall's abundance of cottage gardens is a testament to the region’s mild winters and warm weather, which plants adore. Grand homes with formal gardens blend seamlessly into the Cornish wilderness. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a must-visit, but there is so much more to explore, making Cornwall an ideal setting for durable outdoor sculptures and scenic viewpoints.

Inspired by these sights, I have embarked on creating a natural fence in my garden. Using branches, fallen trees, and remnants from old woodworking projects, I fill the structure with organic waste such as weeds, leaves, and spent plants. Atop this, I plant a collection of ferns, hostas, and hawthorn. It may take a few years to perfect, but once established, it will serve as a wildlife haven and an effective border.

This method of natural fencing is also evident in Mousehold Heath, north of Norwich. It’s a wonderful way to provide shelter for birds and integrates seamlessly with the landscape, unlike shiplap fences, which offer no benefit to wildlife and come at an ever-increasing cost.