RHS Hampton Court border designs unveiled

This year’s designs will look to explore the diversity and versatility of the aromatic Lamiaceae family.

Each of the 15 sqm borders within the ‘For the Love of Lamiaceae’ will be circular or curved to allow visitors to get a full view.

Nina Baxter, director, the London College of Garden Design comments:

“This is the second year we have run this exciting competition to give our graduates a fantastic opportunity to be part of the wonderful RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. This year we asked them to design a border which not only showcases the amazing variety that’s found within the Lamiaceae family, but also the College’s, and the RHS’, ethos for education, diversity and sustainability in planting and garden design.

The seven border designs are as follows;

‘Coastal Reflections’ by John Howlett

Howlett’s design features drought-resistant mints and thymes to evoke the sensory experience of a coastal setting.

‘Herbal Fortress’ by Marlene Lento

Highlighting the immune-boosting properties of Lamiaceae, the border mimics a petri dish, with vibrant floral islands.

‘Telling Stories, Making Memories Lamiaceae and Olfactory Experience’ by Sally Holder and Ella Clarke

Inspired by the brain’s ability to capture and connect different scents to emotions and memories, Holder and Clark’s design features several planting pockets dotted throughout.

‘The Sundowner Garden’ by Victoria Stanton, Kate Hyslop and Dr Gina Liverton-Brown

Sage, hyssop, lavender, thyme and basil – all popular flavours in teas, cocktails and syrups, this garden is a representation of nature’s available palette; while also being a haven for wildlife.

‘The Garden of Simples’ by Susie Kennedy

Celebrating the healing properties of the Lamiaceae family, Kennedy’s design takes inspiration from medieval and monastic healing gardens – reflecting the skills and craftsmanship used within such spaces.

‘The Hummingbird Haven: A Symphony of Colour and Movement’ by Alison Shadwell-Williams and Yvonne Price

The design recognises the connection between hummingbirds and the Lamiaceae family – inspired by the role in which the species play in pollination.

‘Woman-to-woman’ by Ally Elphick, Gill Hall, Irene Rosazza Bertina and Charlotte Wroe (Panacea Projects)

Taking a fresh perspective on medicinal planting, this design will look to inspire visitors to consider both the aesthetic and therapeutic properties of plants.

RHS Hampton Court will be taking place from 1 – 6 July, information and tickets are available at rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-hampton-court-palace-garden-festival/ticket-options.