Rogate garden opens for British Red Cross charity event

Rosemary Alexander’s private garden at Sandhill Farm House in Rogate will welcome the public this Saturday, July 18, from 2pm to 5pm to raise funds for the British Red Cross.

Gloria Moss, who organised the event for the charity, said: "We are proud and very moved to receive support from Rosemary in her place of beauty and creation."

Ms Alexander, founder of the English Gardening School, has collected rare and unusual plants over the last 26 years. The one-acre garden dates back to 1680.

The head gardener, Tina Woodward, recommended visitors explore the woodland garden.

Ms Woodward said: "It is definitely my favourite area. It has an amazing collection of plants, and changes drastically throughout the seasons — and truly is a feast for the eyes, even on a hot July day."

Ms Woodward said: "The garden is a very special place. Rosemary has collected rare and unusual plants over the last 26 years."

There is a mini stumpery with a collection of snowdrops and ferns — similar to a rockery, made from upturned tree stumps, logs and bark.

Other features include a mini kitchen garden, herbaceous borders, a red border, a grasses border and a lawn.

Ms Woodward said: "She’s a keen plantswoman, and finding areas for her newly-purchased plants is always a challenge for me."

The pair, who jokingly refer to themselves as "partners in crime," have worked together for more than 14 years.

Ms Woodward said: "July is a difficult month as the soil is really heating up and dries quickly. We focus heavily on improving the soil to maintain the plants and keep them healthy."

She notes that climate change is bringing new challenges for gardeners everywhere.

She said: "We’re experiencing more and more erratic weather conditions – far more volatile, with prolonged spells of extremes of heat and wet."

Visitors can enjoy homemade teas, coffees, cakes and scones during the afternoon.

Entry is £5 per person, payable on the door.