Two peas in a pod

Successful gardening at a coastal site poses its own challenges; the sea wind – and, sometimes, spray! – makes for harsh conditions. However, there are sheltered areas between the cottages where they produce beautiful floral displays. The soil is surprisingly rich – a legacy of past building work, which saw much soil imported from other areas. But Stephen and Jill are constantly trying to improve it further with their own home-produced compost. “We try to be as organic as possible,” says Jill, “but we resort to chemicals where we have to. Sometimes nature needs a hand!”

Jill plants thousands of bulbs around the site during autumn time. These provide a stunning spring display, especially the many different varieties of daffodils and tulips. Jill grows extra daffodils for use in the castle’s indoor floral displays.

Growing from seed and from cuttings, the emphasis is always on colour and scent throughout the year. “Some plants have been found to be reliable, and these form the backbone of the planting,” says Stephen. “However, new plants are tried every year.”

But one hardy annual to which the couple always return is the not-so-humble sweet pea. Every summer, the back of the site boasts Lathyrus odoratus in profusion – a riot of both colour and scent. These beautiful but short-lived blooms fill the castle with the scent of summertime, and are much admired by holidaying Bondholders.