Winter Preparations

Our gates may be shut for winter, but it’s a hive of activity behind the scenes as we prepare Borde Hill Garden for the colder weather.

Some of the larger plants in the Garden, including the banana plant and Gunnera (Giant Rhubarb) located in Round Dell are not frost hardy. Unlike our dahlias and cannas they cannot be lifted and taken indoors, so we wrap up these plants before frosts get too severe.

Preparing the Banana Plant for winter

Under the watchful eye of Head Gardener Andy, we cut down the banana plant foliage to approximately 3’. We then erect a fence of chestnut paling around the plant and fill it up with loose straw to the height of the stalks. Wooden boards are placed on top to keep the straw dry and retain temperature. This stays in place until early spring when the risk of frost has passed. 

How we protect the Gunnera

We cut off the old leaves and stalks and place the cut leaves over the crown of the plant to keep it warm. The leaves are removed in early spring when the risk of frost is no more. 

See how our 20 year old banana plant and gunnera have survived the winter. Borde Hill Garden is open daily between 23 March and 3 November 2013 inclusive. Opening times are 10am to 6pm or dusk if earlier, with last admission one hour before closing. For more information, call 01444 450326.