When you purchase an internationally-acclaimed garden with your new home (itself a historic 100-year old homestead), it's a formidable responsibility. Yet the new owners of Barewood have not only risen to that challenge they have excelled and their enthusiasm is infectious. This four-acre garden, in the Marlborough district of New Zealand, has matured over the past 55 years so my tour group was delighted to have the opportunity to visit last November.  Barewood exudes the very essence of a romantic garden; billowing borders, fragrant roses, a gentle color palette and a delightful informality.

The Opening Scene

There was an audible gasp as we turned the corner and took in our first view of the home. Set on a slightly elevated position, this was possibly the best example I have ever seen of a perfectly trained wisteria. The mature vine offered fragrance, shade and the most beautiful picture frame to the scene. The lower plantings were mostly tidy mounds in soft shades of white, pink and silver which enhanced rather than competed with the wisteria. To one side of the veranda a pale yellow rose mingled with the wisteria while the purple blooms of a  Buddleia alternifolia  formed a cascading mound, framing the entrance.

Generous Use of Climbers

The variety of climbing plants and the way they were often layered struck me as I tore myself away from the inviting veranda. I especially liked the way a shorter purple clematis was trained to scramble up a pergola from which a golden rain tree (Laburnum) festooned down. In the potager, purple sweet peas were grown on simple frames created from prunings. Fruit trees were also carefully trained to grow over archways – I've seen a similar set up at RHS Harlow Carr in England. Growing the fruit trees in this way is a great use of a small space and makes harvesting easier.

Embracing the Wild Side

Strictly manicured gardens rarely feel romantic. In contrast, Barewood embraced informality without using it as an excuse for weeds. In fact the entire garden was beautifully maintained (different from manicured) but perennials were allowed to mix and mingle rather than being constrained to a strict perimeter. Set against the backdrop of a weathered brick wall and simple gate, left ajar to encourage meandering the overall effect was both charming and inviting.

Delightful Combinations

In the woodland borders I spotted several beautifully composed vignettes that would be easy for many of us to replicate. I see deutzias used a lot in England as well as in New Zealand – I'm beginning to think I need to add some to my new garden design. Although when not in bloom they are just a generic green leafed shrub, they certainly add a lot to spring displays. The white bloom, suffused with pink of this Rhododendron (or maybe an azalea?) looked all the more striking set against the petite blooms in the background.  Barewood was definitely flower-focused rather than foliage-framed, but this combination of a pink Rhododendron and a deep burgundy leaf made a case for more such foliage partners in my mind.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the owners are focused on building the soil structure and of opening up views to the wider pastures.  This is a 'must-see' garden (by appointment only) if you are in the area. It's clear that this remarkable garden is in very good hands.

Like to Travel? Join me!

I'll be taking a small group to Australia and Tasmania this fall and while we won't be visiting Barewood we will be visiting some exceptional private gardens. Check out our itinerary and video.