Trentham Gardens and Adventure Play - Rivers of Grass & Floral Labyrinth

“Fluffy Planting” as one of our gardeners calls it! This area demonstrates a signature look that melds European roots with classic British style. Designed by star landscaper Piet Oudolf, the eastern area of the garden is divided into two distinct areas.

Rivers of Grass

Large swathes of ornamental grasses sweep along the area next to the lake creating Piet's symbolic prairie style of planting.  The large beds of Molinia grasses are divided up by paths and turf areas that are perfect for a quiet resting place or a space to enjoy a picnic with the family. According to the Environment Agency the southern area of the garden is likely to see the occasional wash from the River Trent which will flood increasingly more frequently as a result of our changing environment. For this reason the design has utilised perennials that will tolerate these damper conditions – the result is a naturalistic style of planting anchored around the planting of just two species of ornamental grass (Molinia) which will provide mid to late season interest.

Floral Labyrinth 

Beyond a dividing wall of Betula nigra, you move into a labyrinth of narrow paths which weave through 30 flower beds full of bold and colourful perennials.  Get lost amongst the planting as it towers above you and surrounds you with scent and colour.  Looking at its best in July and August the garden goes on long  into the winter with wonderful seed heads that capture the frost.

The Shrubberies

To the eastern edge of the long Iron Trellis Walk, two grass viewing mounds stand high above a series of thickly under planted borders which contain a connoisseur’s collection of choice shrubs.