MAKING A WOODLAND IN A CITY GARDEN
What tips do you have for planting trees in a paved courtyard? Plant small trees with year-round interest in large containers that hold plenty of compost and water to sustain them, and install a watering system to prevent them from drying out. Set out smaller pots around the trees and fill with ferns and grasses such as Hakonechloa macra (Japanese forest grass) and carex, to soften the hard surfaces and maximise interest.
How would you bring movement into the garden? Introducing still or moving water into a small woodland has a magical impact, animating the space while reflecting the light and tree canopies. You can also achieve movement with taller, filigree grasses, such as hair grass (deschampsia). These will catch the lightest of breezes and add a flowing wave through the underplanting even on calm days.
Which plant colours convey a naturalistic woodland look? Plants for shade are predominantly green, but their foliage is hugely varied and textural. At Holland Park Villas, we used the contrasting leaf textures of Hakonekhloa macra and rodgersia to soften the edges of the path and included white flowering plants, such as Helleborus niger and Astrantia major ‘Shaggy’, to complement the richness of the green foliage and to create a contemporary look.