Master Gardeners were invited to join in at the launch of prestigious new permanent community space this weekend in fashionable Bermondsey, London SE1.

Designed by Australian architect Andrew Burns in collaboration with top UK garden designer Sarah Eberle, the space, Gibbons Rent, was formerly a shady cut through passage.  The plan is based on a clearly defined geometric ‘harlequin’ asphalted ground surface, with potted plants defining the body and character of the garden. The structural planting is enhanced by contributions from the community.

Local Master Gardeners Fabiana, Jane, Melanie, Sarah and coordinator Fiona were on hand to help local residents, and a few visiting landscape architects, to feel confident about potting up ornamentals, herbs and strawberry plants.  They also gave advice about growing fruit and veg in pots and on balconies to residents, sowed dwarf bean ‘Speedy’, and made links with local people to also support them at home.

See here for the Archtiecture Foundation and here for Cityscapes - growing art in the city – summer long festival on London’s South Bank and Bankside.  See Fabiana’s blog for her take on the day

Adrian and Lea pleased with their pot

Fabiana with local teenagers

Melanie and Jane get the strawberries in

Fabiana mixed culinary herbs and ornamental Achillea

The three sages, or graces?

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