I’ve been itching to write about Andrea Brunsendorf’s fabulous sculptural planting ever since I saw it at the weekend at the Inner Temple Garden’s Dog Show. This was another very enjoyable Chelsea Fringe event, and even though the Fringe and the dog show are over, there are still ample opportunities to visit the Inner Temple Gardens. They’re tucked in behind Fleet Street (accessed by the main gate opposite Crown Office Row) and can be visited weekdays from 12.30-3pm.
This wild planting is in Hare Court, just round the corner from the main gardens and the Inner Temple Church.
The surreal sight of a hundred Verbascum alongside a pared back palette of other plants (Euphorbias, Fennel, Yew and Verbenas) in this ordinarily conservative courtyard just made my heart sing. I found myself dragging others along from the main gardens to share in my delight.
Back to the dog show, and visiting dogs are not usually allowed in the Inns of Court,
which made the afternoon’s main event even more enjoyable. Hosted by head gardener Andrea Brunsendorf, it was a very jolly affair with 4 categories,
and loads of canine entrants!
I was rather taken by Geoff, who won second prize for dog the judges would most like to take home,
and I think the engaging Susan won third prize for dog with the waggiest tail.
The tulips are now over in the borders, but there are still plenty of stunning combinations to see,
and the planting of Verbenas, Cosmos, Eucalyptus, Cleomes and Salvias will be reason enough for a repeat visit to this wonderful garden later on in the summer.
Out of my shed 
Those amazing yellow aquilegias again. Very popular they proved on my Facebook site.
Yes, those yellow aquilegias are a winner!
What very dramatic gorgeous planting and I would take Geoff home.
Sue, I just loved Andrea’s bold planting-thrilling really, especially right in the heart of London. Looking out for my own Geoff now!
So sorry I missed this Fringe event – it looks like a lot of fun. Is there any talk of a repeat performance next year?
Hi Abigail-that’s a good question. Will have to check with Andrea what her plans are for 2014! It was hugely enjoyable!
Dogs and Gardens! My two favorite things.
Hi Christine, Yes, it was a splendid afternoon-exciting planting, very entertaining dog show and a piece of chocolate cake to top it all off. What could be better! N x
I think I’m in love with Geoff!!!! Fab post 🙂
He’s a bit gorgeous isn’t he! N x
I was there too! I’m friends with two of Andrea’s apprentices. The gravel garden is a great example of having to “make do with what you got” Andrea is always trying new combinations and is sweetly modest about her planting. She claims to fail just as much as she succeeds.
Hi Anna, what a shame not to meet you! It’s great that Andrea is up for plenty of experimentation. Loved what I’ve seen so far!
[…] I can’t wait to see what the Fringe has in store for 2017……(Above-Geoff at the Inner Temple Dog Show in 2013) […]