What's happening in our New Forest Hotel Garden

At the Montagu Arms Hotel, our beautiful garden is always a hive of activity and growth. Over the past few weeks, we've been working hard to enhance and maintain our outdoor space, ensuring it remains a lush and inviting haven for our guests to enjoy.

Here's a peek at what we've been up to—and what you can look forward to in the coming weeks!

 

Installing an Archway in the Kitchen Garden

We've added a bamboo archway in the kitchen garden to support climbing beans and nasturtiums. Using sustainable materials from our own garden, this feature not only adds visual interest but also encourages vibrant, edible blooms to flourish.

 

Creating a New Pathway

To better connect different parts of our garden, we've laid down a pathway between the mid lawn and upper lawn.

This new route makes exploring the garden more enjoyable and provides a convenient pathway for brides on their wedding day, especially those tying the knot on the top lawn.

Watering Amid Spring Drought

With the serious lack of rainfall this spring, we've been diligently watering our newly planted trees, shrubs, and seeds directly sown in the ground. This extra care helps ensure healthy growth during these dry conditions.

Weeding Efforts

It's essential to stay on top of weeds at this time of year to prevent them from going to seed. We've been focusing on removing persistent weeds like bindweed, keeping the garden tidy and healthy.

Planting Herbs and Vegetables

Our kitchen garden is thriving with new herbs now being planted. We've also sown radish, lettuce, and edible flowers directly into the soil, providing fresh ingredients for our culinary offerings.

Supporting Our Daffodils and Tulips

To encourage better blooms next year, we’ve been removing seed heads from existing daffodils and tulips, allowing the plants to focus their energy on developing strong flowers this season.

Participating in No Mow May

In select areas, we’re observing No Mow May, letting the grass grow wild to support pollinators. Meanwhile, we’re mowing pathways through the grass for guests to wander and enjoy the natural beauty of the garden, along with maintaining the more formal lawns.

Looking Ahead: Plans for the Next Few Weeks

Preparation for the National Garden Scheme (NGS)
We’re focusing on essential tasks like weeding, watering, mowing, and planting out seedlings to prepare our garden for visitors during the upcoming NGS open days.

Sowing More Seeds in the Greenhouse
Our greenhouse will be busy with new sowings of flowers and vegetables, ensuring a continued burst of colour and produce throughout the season.

We’re excited to see our garden flourish this summer and invite all guests to enjoy its evolving beauty. Whether you’re strolling along our new pathways or relaxing in the lush surroundings, the Montagu Arms Garden is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in nature’s bounty. Stay tuned for more updates and come see the progress first hand!