Furzey Gardens – Reflective Waters of Inclusivity

The garden represents the peaceful lake and waterfall area at Furzey Gardens, an RHS Partner garden which is tended and maintained by people with learning disabilities.

Tranquil waters of two pools are linked by a cascading display of Festuca glauca, trailing lobelia and white bacopa. The waters are surrounded by informal planting which includes hostas, ligularia and ferns. A Japanese maple stands tall showing off a vibrant leaf canopy and interesting branch and trunk structure.

From the initial planning, to completion of the gardens, people with learning disabilities have been involved in shaping this project. They are demonstrating the horticultural skills they have built over several years working at Furzey Gardens, which is run by local charity Minstead Trust – represented in the garden by pebbles around the water’s edge. The gardens have been supporting people with learning disabilities for nearly 40 years, where they maintain the gardens and raise plants for sale in the nursery.

At a glance

 Who is this garden for? 
A public garden.
Where is the garden set?
Furzey Gardens, New Forest, Hampshire​.
Who or what is the design inspiration?
The team of gardeners, with learning disabilities, who help to maintain Furzey Gardens, including the peaceful lake and waterfall area – a haven for birdlife, insects all year round.

Key sustainability points

• Many of the materials and plants have been sourced from Furzey Gardens and associated sites.
• Pebbles are made from responsibly sourced clay from the crater of a fallen old oak.
• Plants and materials used within the design will be replanted or repositioned in their existing space at Furzey Gardens.