Today it was wonderful to welcome the Director of the National Botanic Garden, Lucy Sutherland, to our little patch of growing paradise. Well maybe not quite paradise, but a special place none the less. And it was very exciting to hear that Lucy had used our group to showcase the success of a socially prescribed therapeutic gardening group in Wales to potentially inspire the botanic gardens across China…CHINA!!! Wow.
Back in the reality of an autumn day with rays of gentle sun and hints of rain all at the same time, we were able to show Lucy how the garden has developed over the years.
The pond – now thriving with plant life and aerated by a solar panel; it was paid for with funds donated by the group members.
The Secret Garden – a space to sit and calm and recover, well used by patients with brain injury to gather energy and manage fatigue.
The pathways – much needed fully accessible all weather paths for all people to access all areas.
After Lucy had finished her visit we spent a peaceful afternoon clearing and covering beds, scraping moss, weeding paths and cutting back ready for winter. Of course there was tea, Jaffa cakes, chats, excitement about an art project the group has been asked to take part in and the joy of a baby toad found in the Rocket lettuce bed and carefully rehomed by the pond. All in all a lovely day.
Thank you so much for visiting us Lucy and taking the time to find out more about the Live Well Growers and thankyou to our baby toad visitor. We loved meeting you both!!