Paradise At The Palace

The Garden of Eden has inspired a Show Garden at The Royal Horticultural Society’s 2001 Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Elizabeth Apedaile has based her design for ‘The Paradise Garden’ on the lavish, spiritual designs of the Persian Empire. ‘The Paradise Garden’ designed for Dove Landscapes, is just one of the world-class Show Gardens selected for this year’s Show. The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, East Molesey, runs from the 3-8 July. (Ticket Hotline: 0870 906 3791).

The Mogul dynasties created gardens of great beauty on lavish scales, with a basic tradition of order and symmetry. Elizabeth Apedaile has re-created a mogul inspired ancient garden by using the Lotus flower, symbolic in both Buddhist and Hindu tradition, as her inspiration for the fountain jets producing patterns of water in the centre of ‘The Paradise Garden’.

‘The Paradise Garden’ is constructed around a central axis running diagonally across the site. The back of the garden is on a higher level with a small fountain framed by a trellis arch, influenced by Mogul architecture. The water is carried under a paved platform where it descends into a main pool, before continuing to a small pool at the front of the garden. Horizontal surfaces will be paved in natural stone to create a feeling of space and symmetry.

In contrast to the formal structure of the garden, the plants flow out of the borders to soften lines. Aroma is the key to the planting scheme, with lavenders, roses, honeysuckle, jasmine, Dianthus and night-scented stocks, adding to the scent of the garden, particularly at dusk.

"In an era of turmoil and constant intrigue, the gardens provided a physical and spiritual retreat for the emperors and their families while they were living, and a peaceful resting place after their death", commented Elizabeth Apedaile.

"Parallels can be drawn between their lives and the stresses of modern living. To many people a garden in the 21st century is a place to unwind after a hard day’s work. This garden has been created to provide a retreat in the evening for family and friends", Elizabeth concluded.

The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is a unique opportunity to gather inspiration for all garden lovers this summer. For both small urban spaces and sprawling country gardens, there will be masses of ideas and plants to take home. To book tickets call the ticket hotline now on: 0870 906 3791.

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