Garden accessory created by Benton End's gardener: Terracotta pot featuring Benton irises
Artful Assemblage of Terracotta Pots at Benton End
Gathered on the old wooden steps of Benton End, these sun-kissed terracotta pots celebrate three of the captivating creations from Cedric Morris' iris breeding days. Known for his extensive work throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Morris cultivated around 90 bearded irises, a legacy we owe to the tireless efforts of horticulturist Sarah Cook, who brings these treasures back into the spotlight.
Colorful Companions for Your Spring Garden
- A Palette of Pot-bound Charm for Your Spring Garden
- A Lively Cascade of Spring Colors Awaits with This creative Potted Design
- Unleash the Powers of Powder Blues and Peachy Oranges in this enchanting Spring Pot
Bringing Cedric Morris's Iris Magic to Life
Cedric Morris' irises exude a uniquely alluring palette and delicate charm. The three featured irises range from a rich nut-brown hue to a deep violet, and a smoky lilac that radiates lemon and bronze, later named in honor of Morris by the British Iris Society posthumously. Foxgloves provide vertical structure, while simple white chives, allium, and double sea campion create a relaxed, scenic border. Pink fringed philadelphia trail the arrangement, adding a captivating touch.
The historic steps serve as a captivating stage for these pots, particularly the shallow pan dishes, remnants of the Nottinghamshire company Sankey Bulwell, which produced terracotta pots from 1895 to 1976.
When creating a similar arrangement on a terrace, using pots of various sizes can enhance the overall look. However, smaller pots work best for the shallow steps, as larger pots may not sit comfortably due to their depth.
The Art of Cultivation and Care
Excluding the foxgloves, these plants thrive in hot, dry conditions. Being grown in a pot restricts water availability, so a loam-based potting soil is essential to prevent frequent drying. During the height of summer, in drier spells, these pots will need water at least every other day.
The Plants of Choice
Allium schoenoprasum 'Wallington White' - Needs regular deadheading to prevent premature seeding. Grows to 25cm x 10cm. RHS H6, USDA 4a-8b.
Iris 'Benton Caramel' - Once a cherished raffle prize given away by Morris himself. Grows to 90cm x 40cm. RHS H6, USDA 3a-10b.
Silene uniflora 'Robin Whitebreast' - A trailing, double-flowered sea campion. Grows to 15cm x 30cm. RHS H7, USDA 3a-8b.
Dianthus superbus - Known for its spectacular wispy petals. Grows to 25cm x 30cm. RHS H7, USDA 3a-8b.
Iris 'Benton Nigel' - Named for Nigel Scott, who gardened with Morris in the 1950s. Grows to 90cm x 40cm. RHS H7, USDA 3a-10b.
Digitalispurpurea f. *albiflora* - Produces elegant, white spires. Grows to 1.4m x 60cm. RHS H7, USDA 4a-8b.
Iris 'Benton Farewell' - Selected from Benton seedlings. Grows to 95cm x 40cm. RHS H7, USDA 3a-10b.
Allium 'Eos' - A compact, North American allium cultivar. Grows to 30cm x 30cm.
Source Your Own Masterpieces
- Beth Chatto's Plants& Gardens - Tel: 01206 822007, www.bethchatto.co.uk
- Fibrex Nurseries - Tel: 01789 720788, www.fibrex.co.uk
- Great Dixter Nurseries - Tel: 01797 254044, www.shop.greatdixter.co.uk
- Special Plants - Tel: 01225 891686, www.specialplants.net
- The Plantman's Preference - Tel: 01379 710810, www.plantpref.co.uk
- Woottens of Wenhaston - Tel: 01502 478258, www.woottensplants.com
Here's another enchanting pot design from the talented James Horner.
Terracotta pots, often used in horticulture, can elevate your home-and-garden lifestyle with a touch of artfulness.A Gardener's Palette features a delightful assortment of plants and flowers, perfect for enhancing your spring garden's color and charm.Further expanding your horticultural collection, consider adding the likes of Foxgloves, Allium, Sea Campion, Dianthus, various Iris species, and White Allium to your gardens, to create a scenic and captivating environment.*
