A physic garden - Part One

Some years after we moved to Hitchin,  I discovered the Physic Garden. It was planted in 1990 and is still tended by a dedicated team of gardeners. A book was published for the 25th anniversary of the garden's opening. I have a copy of the book, which is invaluable as I plan my own mini physic garden.

I've been fascinated by medicinal plants since being a small child. My Dad, despite the fact that he was born and raised in the centre of Manchester, was very knowledgeable. His maternal grandmother lived in Glossop, in the Pennines. He often visited her and she taught him all she knew about the old herbal remedies. He was a real Lancashire Lad. He and Eamonn got on very well. It was Dad who knew that this was the man I would marry, when I brought Eamonn home to Manchester at Easter 1969, just a month after we had met.  I had no idea - young and clueless.

This year is the 25th anniversary of my Dad, Thomas' death.

The motivation for planting this physic garden was the unearthing of three medicinal plants, after the border was cleared earlier this year.

Violet (small leaves at the front of the border.

Feverfew (golden leaves with daisy-like flowers)

Aquiligia (behind the feverfew)

I researched the plants that are suitable for the soil and aspect of this part of the garden. A local plant nursery provided the ones that I couldn't find online.

The plant label at the back, near the fence-post. is between two roots of white Valerian given to me by the nursery because it was impossible to find anywhere.

Three digitalis plants are in place, still in their pots as there hasn't been time to plant those yet.

Some of the other plants I wanted were sourced online. When I unpacked them, the scent of the green and bronze fennel filled the air.

The parcel also contained

Lemon Verbena
Lemon Balm
Hyssop
Vervain
Oregano

All are waiting for the end to the extreme heat, soaking in rain-water in the wheel-barrow, and moving to follow the shade.

I also have some lavender and rosemary cuttings that will find a suitable place in the physic garden.






The plot will be dedicated to my Dad, on 12th August, the 25th anniversary of his death.

I have ordered a memorial plaque that can be 'planted' in the ground.

Alongside it, I am making a garden statue, from a granite Mortar and Pessle, bought online. It will sit on top of a large stone that looks as though it was part of some steps (also unearthed when the border was cleared). I have yet to find the right spot for it.

This idea was from the Monument in the Hitchin Physic Garden.