Hidden behind a high photinia hedge is Hillgrove House with its 5 acres of established gardens on the northern outskirts of Mudgee. On entering along the gravel driveway, the simple beauty of shaped shrubs under towering trees make a powerful statement- that this is a very special garden.
There are plenty of spring-flowering ornamentals to lift the spirits as the cold weather begins its retreat.
Mudgee’s legendary clear blue sky is a beautiful backdrop against which to view the topmost blossoms of these venerable old trees.
It’s a pleasure to wander and explore winding pathways, between broad, open spaces and densely planted garden beds. There is so much to this garden, so I have chosen to present just a few of the highlights seen at the recent Mudgee Garden Spectacular.
On a gently sloping block, the garden extends from eucalypt-scented Australian native plantings at the top, down to an iris-fringed pond at the bottom of the garden. A cobbled stream cascades down the hillside to feed this irresistible water garden.
Along the way you will discover a formal rose garden, bordered by a Buxus hedge, bursting with mature specimens.
Dotted all through this well-established garden are tall trees- including Bunya Pine, Himalayan Cedar, oaks and Swamp Cypress.
The garden beds are lovingly cared for, and protected by a thick layer of nourishing lucerne hay mulch.
Elegant sculptures and ornaments are scattered sparingly throughout.
Everywhere there is a sense of space and serenity.
Occasional blasts of vibrant colour have a big impact.
This garden is a credit to the visionary owners and gardeners who have created it.
That first picture sort of makes me cringe. It is so common for well intended shrubs to be shorn into rounded over shapes by ‘gardeners’ who do not know better. These in your picture seem to be shorn that way intentionally, within a landscape that was designed for them to be shorn that way.
Hi Tony, I think they look good- the contrast with the tall trees works well. I’m also in awe of the skill of those who do this shaping so precisely.
Whomever designed the landscape also happened to select an interesting variety of foliar colors, specifically for this purpose.
Great observation Tony- thank you.