GREAT GARDENS TO VISIT THIS MONTH

Huntly Cot, Moorfoot, by Temple, Midlothian

A unique garden, set in one of Midlothian’s most beautiful and tranquil locations. At a height of over 850 feet, there are spectacular views, northwards, across Gladhouse Reservoir to the Pentland Hills. Hundreds of trees have been planted around the estate, to provide all important shelter for the garden. At its centre is a beautiful heart-shaped heather garden, with a natural spring burn, perfectly complementing the garden’s moorland setting. Cloud-pruned shrubs and trees create structure in the garden and the herbaceous borders surrounding the house, provide tastefully planted colour combinations throughout the year. Open 3 September (1 - 5pm)

Cruikshank Botanic Gardens, Aberdeen

An evening tour with the Curator, Mark Paterson and Head Gardener, Richard Walker. The garden comprises a sunken garden with alpine lawn, a rock garden built in the 1960s complete with waterfalls and pond system, a long unbroken herbaceous border, a formal rose garden with drystone walling, and an arboretum. It has a large collection of flowering bulbs and rhododendrons, and many unusual shrubs and trees including two mature Camperdown Elms. 7 September (6 - 8.30pm)

Tarland Community Garden, Aboyne

The gardens opened in 2013 to provide an inclusive and accessible community growing space for local residents. It has indoor (polytunnel) and outdoor raised beds for rent plus communal planting areas including a soft fruit cage, fruit trees, and a herb garden. The community bee group also manages a hive at the site. It is a place for members to grow produce, learn, share and have fun. Open 24 September (2 - 5pm)