Planting & Hedging
A mix of native species, wildflowers, historic medicinal plants, foliage-rich perennials, and native hedging chosen for resilience, scent, and symbolism
The planting within St Godwald’s Retreat is designed to evoke a sense of harmony with nature. It features a rich mix of native species, historic medicinal plants, and wildflowers, offering a vibrant tapestry of colours, textures, and scents throughout the year. This selection includes wildflower turf and species-rich turf, supplied by Lindum Turf, which enhances the natural beauty and biodiversity of the space. Additionally, hedging from a native mix—featuring Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, and Corylus avellana—has been kindly loaned by Readyhedge in Worcestershire, left in an untrimmed state to create a natural and rustic edge to the garden. This is bolstered by Viburnum lantana and additional Crataegus monogyna, which adds structure and diversity.
The planting has been thoughtfully curated to connect visitors to the healing power of plants, fostering a deeper relationship with nature. Plants such as Pulmonaria, Thyme, and Primula veris (the primrose, which symbolises the hospice) create a serene, spiritually meaningful space. These plants not only offer aesthetic appeal but also support local wildlife, promoting resilience and sustainability in the landscape.
The garden features a mixture of attractive perennials and native species, as well as plants selected for their foliage rather than their ability to flower. Often, planting schemes are focused solely on the flowering life cycle of a plant, without considering the needs of the person viewing it. In a hospice setting, some visitors may not be able to wait for a flower to open, especially during the winter months. With this in mind, we’ve ensured that there will be areas in the garden that remain beautiful throughout the year.
In addition to being visually striking, the planting scheme has been designed to be low-maintenance and sustainable. The Hospice garden is maintained by a small team of volunteers, so the planting must be robust and not overly demanding of resources. The careful selection of plants ensures that the space remains vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable for both people and wildlife, all year round.
Exploring St Godwald’s Retreat
Support St Godwald’s Retreat – Element Sponsors and patrons
We are incredibly grateful to our generous patrons and sponsors who have contributed money, materials, and time to bring this garden to life, supporting each element with their dedication and kindness. The sponsors of this element are:
Logo | Sponsor name | Donation | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
Readyhedge | Very kindly loaning the native mix hedging | https://readyhedgeltd.com/ |
St Godwald’s Retreat is a garden born from passion, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose. We invite businesses and individuals to support this meaningful project through monetary donations or by contributing products or services in kind. Your support will help bring this garden to life and ensure that its legacy of remembrance, reflection, and solace endures for years to come.
Become a Sponsor
If your business is interested in sponsoring the garden, whether through a monetary donation or by providing materials, please get in touch with us directly at RHS@fbslandscapes.co.uk. Your partnership will not only support a project that brings comfort and peace to many but will also provide your company with recognition at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival and beyond.
Become a Patron of the Reflection Lodge
We are also offering a special opportunity for individuals to become patrons of the garden’s Reflection Lodge. For a donation, you will have your name engraved on a wooden plaque inside the Reflection Lodge, becoming a permanent part of this sanctuary for reflection and remembrance. To make a donation and become a patron, simply click the button below to visit our GoFundme page and help us create a lasting legacy.
Together, we can make St Godwald’s Retreat a place of lasting impact for all who visit. Thank you for your generosity and support.