A Chelsea Flower Show prize-winning garden was relocated to charity Aspens last week while guests celebrated the occasion.
The Pembury-based organisation, which provides high-quality care and support to individuals on the autism spectrum and those with learning disabilities, worked with local garden designer Camellia Taylor to create the Natural Affinity Garden. It went on display at the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship event where it drew lots of praise.
Camellia attended the celebrations along with representatives from The Outdoor Room who built the garden at Chelsea and rebuilt it again at the Pembury site. Also in attendance were How Green Nursery and Plantbase, who provided the plants. Corporate supporters were present, alongside many of the volunteers and Aspens residents at the Pembury site.
The Silver-Gilt prize-winning garden was designed to raise awareness around the therapeutic value of nature by engaging with each of the seven senses.
Camellia previously explained to the Times how she designed the garden: “The footprint of the garden is based on my interest that brain neurons and plant roots not only look similar but have also been mathematically shown to grow in the same way.
“The garden is composed of three main elements: trees, plants and stone. The plants have been specifically selected for their individual sensory qualities and are placed according to different sensory zones.”
Now that the garden has returned to Aspens, it will provide a therapeutic haven for years to come.
One guest commented: “It feels like it’s always been here, it just looks so right here.”
The charity will be celebrating once again next spring with the official opening event for the Garden, where they will mark the first anniversary of their Chelsea Flower Show experience.
If you would like to be involved with the continuing journey of the Natural Affinity Garden, Aspens are seeking volunteers to help care for it. Contact enquiries@aspens.org.uk to find out more.
