Our Kitchen Garden may be closed to visitors over the winter months, but behind the scenes our gardeners are hard at work maintaining and preparing for the vibrant growing season ahead. As we look forward to reopening on 3 April, here’s a glimpse of what’s been happening across the cold season…
Building for Growth
Our team has been busy building plant supports for runner beans, peonies, peas, and dahlias. Using hazel foraged from the grounds, these supports will help our plants thrive as they burst into life in the warmer months. Our approach reflects our commitment to sustainability, using only natural materials to cut down on plastic waste.
Expanding the Fruit Cage
This year, we’re introducing even more delicious berries to our fruit cage. Alongside our existing currants and berries, 2025 will see the arrival of tayberries, boysenberries, loganberries, and golden raspberries—an exciting new chapter for our soft fruit selection. These additions not only diversify our harvest but also enhance local biodiversity, supporting pollinators and other wildlife in the garden. You will find them on our produce cart later in the year… stay tuned.
A New Interactive Maze
In the Sunken Garden, an interactive maize maze is taking shape! This new addition promises to be a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, reinforcing our mission to create spaces where everyone can connect with nature and benefit from time outdoors. We are currently in the stage of mapping out the maze, as you can see in the image below.
Mulching & Preparing for Growth
Most of our vegetable and flower rows have been mulched and chipped, ensuring the soil is protected and enriched during its winter rest. This process is vital for sustainable gardening, improving soil health, retaining moisture, and reducing the need for artificial inputs. While the garden may appear quiet, it’s better to think of it as being in hibernation. Flowers are expected to begin blooming in March, with vegetables following in May.
Introducing the Woodland Corner
This year, we’re excited to introduce the Woodland Corner, a space dedicated to new mushroom projects. Freshly gathered wood is currently being inoculated with mycelium, setting the stage for future harvests and exploration into the fascinating world of fungi. This initiative aligns with our focus on environmental conservation, harnessing natural processes to promote soil regeneration and ecological diversity.
Winter Pruning
January was dedicated to pruning our apple and pear trees, ensuring they remain healthy and productive for the coming year. This essential winter task helps maintain strong growth and encourages a bountiful harvest, playing a key role in preserving our historic orchards and ensuring their continued contribution to the local landscape.
The Beauty of Winter in the Kitchen Garden
As Sally, our Senior Kitchen Gardener, put it,
I love the Kitchen Garden in winter because you can see the structure and the bones of the garden before it is enclosed in new growth.
While the lushness of spring and summer is still on the horizon, winter offers a unique perspective—one of quiet resilience and preparation, reminding us of the deep connection between gardening, well-being, and history.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to the Kitchen Garden on 3 April to experience the seasonal transformations, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the many benefits our gardens have to offer. To find out first about Kitchen Garden updates and events, sign up to our newsletter here.