In late May, I visited a second RBGE satellite garden. Bemore Botanic Garden is located on the Cowal Peninsula in western Scotland. The estate was given to RBGE in 1924 and became the first satellite garden. The climate, with up to 118” of rain per year, is essentially a temperate rainforest, which favors the growth of their Rhododendron collection.
What struck me most about this garden was that walking along the paths felt more like a hike than a leisurely stroll. Scaling the hillside did provide us with amazing views of the surrounding countryside!
I went to the garden with RBGE’s apprentices. This program provides young adults (age 16-19) with paid work experience at the garden and day release to attend classes at a local agricultural college. Currently there are four apprentices, with three finishing in July.
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Cold frames on one side of the formal garden.
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I loved the green and red color combination of this maple and rhododendron.
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The recently restored fernery.
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Meconopsis cambrica is native to the British Isles and seems to seed around quite easily.
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The newly completed Bhutan pavilion. Nearby is the Bhutanese glade, featuring plants from the Himalayas.
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A view near the pond.
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Benmore is well known for its entrance, the Redwood Avenue, which was planted in 1863. The trees are over 165 feet tall.
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The Courtyard Gallery is open for art exhibitions.
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