The new planting scheme in the Abbey Gardens ornamental beds is now beginning to fill out. Recent rainfall, together with a layer of mulch, has helped get the young plants established.  Earlier this spring, perennial plants were introduced as part of a move away from traditional seasonal bedding. The scheme, developed by the Grounds Maintenance and Climate and Biodiversity teams at VWHDC (Vale of White Horse District Council), replaces short-lived annual displays with longer-lived, drought-tolerant planting designed to support wildlife and improve resilience and reduce maintenance.

The plants, supplied by a local Oxfordshire nursery, were selected for both their hardiness and their value to pollinators. Species include alliums, asters, anemones, coneflowers, field scabious, catmint (shown above), thyme, and verbena.