The Island Gardens

Cultivating a garden on a part-time island is unlike the kind of gardening most people are used to – even those living near to the sea.  St. Mary’s Island is exposed to icy winds, sea frets laden with salt and sand, scorching sun, and wildlife – rabbits, foxes, seals and even visitors’ dogs.  Winter on the island seems to last longer than on the mainland, but the time is spent planning the themed planting for the following year.  When summer comes, thanks to a very small band of volunteers with some professional help, the raised beds and planters burst into colour.

[This page is currently being updated. New photographs will appear soon]