In our series #GMinyourgarden, we’re peeking over the fence into gardens around the world to explore their places in our lives today. This week, Allie's Kent garden, where she is bringing wildlife back to her new-build plot.
When I bought this house, my experience of gardening was limited to a singular raised bed at a rented house, where I grew cut flowers. But even without the experience of a full garden, I decided I wanted to grow everything; plants to support nature, vegetables to eat and of course, plenty of flowers.
A big part of my journey with this garden has been taking it in stages. I didn’t have the budget to complete the garden in one go, so gappy borders and untouched spaces have become a part of the story here. Looking back, I’m grateful for the slower pace, because it’s allowed me to learn and develop my vision for the space.
The journey has been testing at times, new build soil needs a lot of love and improvement, but there is a real sense of achievement in bringing nature back to an empty space. It’s given me a huge admiration for the ecosystem of the garden.
It’s not all been hard, as much energy as it’s taken, it’s given back two-fold. From an abundance of home-grown vegetables to a space to enjoy a quiet moment. I’m excited that this year will see the continuation of work, adding more beds, paths and plenty of plants.
This garden means so much to me, even in its incomplete state as it’s where I truly found myself. Without this garden, I wouldn’t have made the decision to begin retraining in horticulture and for that, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
Follow along with our #GMInYourGarden series on Instagram @gardenmuseum
Follow Allie: @alliesarasmith
