Tiny Treasures

When touring public gardens, it’s all too easy to be overwhelmed by the many big, blousy blooms. In late summer, hydrangeas and asters fight for attention with gingers and dahlias in a floral melee, so take a moment to consider the charms of much smaller blooms. While undoubtedly inconspicuous, they are often marvels of packaging, containing all the reproductive structures necessary to ensure the transfer of genes. They also force you to slow down and take time, whilst examining their petite perfection, and we could all do with slowing down!

Dr. Ross Bayton is Assistant Director at Heronswood.