Ecology as a starting point
From Imbalance to Resilience
Untill only a few years ago, the garden at the Reverie was dominated by tall trees. It had little to no undergrowth, besides a seemingly unlimited number of tree seedlings. The sun was unable to break through the canopy and rarely reached the ground. Important layering in the form of shrubs and groundcover was absent. Habitat variety was low, wildlife presence modest and ecological balance fragile, resulting in recurring imbalances, including aphid infestations affecting plant health and high populations of soil-dwelling larvae damaging root systems.
In recent years, the planting palette has been expanded to nearly 200 species, creating layered vegetation, year-round structure and seasonal continuity. Now, the garden is evolving into an increasingly resilient and self-supporting living system. It is now visited by a wide variety of insects, birds (from small wrens to birds of prey), small mammals including martens and the occasional fox passing through, and bats flocking through the garden on summer nights. These are visible indicators of a functioning and interconnected habitat. The transformation continues gradually, guided by biodiversity, soil health and careful refinement.
Working with Soil
The garden lies on sandy woodland soil, characterised by quick drainage and relatively low nutrient retention. Rather than attempting to alter these conditions fundamentally, planting decisions are adjusted to them.
Mulch is applied selectively, depending on plant group and location. Organic mulch improves moisture retention, supports soil organisms and gradually enhances soil structure. In areas with acid-loving species, mulching also helps maintain favourable pH conditions. Soil is treated as a living system, the ecological foundation on which all other decisions rest.
Year-Round Bloom
A continuous flowering sequence ensures nectar availability across seasons.
Early spring begins with Lungwort and Prunus spinosa (blackthorn). Through late spring and summer, Rhamnus frangula (alder buckthorn) provides an extended nectar source over many weeks. In winter, Mahonia x media offers one of the few available blooms for early pollinators.
By layering flowering shrubs, trees and perennials, seasonal gaps are reduced and pollinators are supported beyond peak summer months.
Structure as Habitat
Ecological value depends on structure. The garden is planted in layers with groundcovers, low shrubs, mid-height shrubs and hedging species, creating shelter, nesting opportunities and varied microclimates.
Hedgerows of Ligustrum vulgare (wild privet) are allowed to flower before seasonal pruning. Berry-producing shrubs provide autumn and winter food for birds. Layered planting reduces wind exposure, improves moisture retention and increases habitat complexity throughout the year.
Pollinators and Host Plants
Nectar plants are combined with host plants to support complete life cycles. A managed patch of Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) functions as a host plant for Vanessa atalanta (red admiral), Vanessa cardui (painted lady) and Aglais io (peacock butterfly). The scarlet tiger moth, Euplagia quadripunctaria, also relies on Lamium album (white deadnettle), Glechoma hederacea (ground ivy), Rubus fruticosus (bramble) and Lonicera periclymenum (native honeysuckle).
As plant diversity has increased, so has wildlife presence. Butterflies, moths, dragonflies and bats now form part of a visible and functioning food web.
Native and Adaptive Planting
Plant selection prioritises native and well-adapted species suited to local soil and climate conditions. Examples include Lonicera periclymenum (native honeysuckle), Corylus avellana (hazel) and Humulus lupulus (hop), all contributing to habitat value and seasonal structure.
Not every plant is selected solely for ecological value. Some ornamentals, including Hydrangea and azaleas, are chosen for their beauty. Even so, they provide structure, shelter and microhabitats that support the wider system.