GREAT GARDENS TO VISIT THIS MONTH

Birken Cottage, Burnhervie, Inverurie This steeply sloping garden of just under one acre is packed with plants. It rises from a wet streamside gully and woodland, past sunny terraces and a small parterre, to dry flowery banks. Open 12 June (2-5pm) Holmes Farm, Drybridge, by Irvine An ever-evolving selection of perennials, bulbs, alpines and shrubs. Meandering paths guide the eye through plantings predominantly herbaceous, with small trees and shrubs. Some unusual plant collections are housed permanently in polytunnels. The garden opening will hopefully be timed for peak bloom of some of the 400 iris in the garden. There is a plant nursery with a wide selection of plant treasures from the garden, and a gift shop and gallery too. Open 11 & 12 June (1 – 5pm) Hidden Gardens of St Andrews A selection of gardens open within the heart of mediaeval St Andrews. These include the ‘long rigg’ garden at 46 South Street with its doocot, the Museum garden at 10 North Street, St John’s House garden in South Street, allotment gardens, and a variety of gardens all with unique and charming features. Stalls and refreshments. Open 26 June (11am to 5pm) East Gordon Smiddy, Gordon, Berwickshire A garden created from farmland in 2008 with wonderful panoramic views towards the Cheviot Hills. Herbaceous borders, shrubbery, an extensive vegetable garden and fruit trees. There is a pond, woodland and wildflower meadow. The whole garden is divided by mature hornbeam hedging, grass pathways and interesting corners in which to sit and contemplate. Open 26 June (11am – 5pm)