Named after the metal tree given by our twin town of Bocholt in Germany, this bed was a receptacle for litter, weeds and discarded road signs! This was our second garden and so with much needed support from local schools and colleges, young and old(er!) volunteers came together. Finance came from local businesses.
Before
Rapid ground cover to make it publicly visible in the early days was essential to discourage anti-social behaviour and create public awareness of who had done it. Maintaining the driver’s line of sight as they entered the roundabout from Bury Road, was a priority.
By planting edible species from vegetables to fruit trees, community interest was instantaneous and Civic Pride Rossendale was on its way. Now maintained and cared for by an octogenarian volunteer, most of the of the rampaging alpine strawberries, raspberries and blackcurrant have been removed.
The emphasis is on year-round colour making it a focal point for visitors passing through. Bulbs in early spring, wallflowers, tulips, wild garlic, polyanthus and aubretia for late Spring. Early summer brings forth lupin, catmint, ox-eye daisies, and peonies. During mid-summer and autumn, bedding plants and roses play their part. Finally, all season colour and interest are provided by pyracantha, dog wood and coloured foliage plants.
The emphasis is on year-round colour making it a focal point for visitors passing through. Bulbs in early spring, wallflowers, tulips, wild garlic, polyanthus and aubretia for late Spring. Early summer brings forth lupin, catmint, ox-eye daisies, and peonies. During mid-summer and autumn, bedding plants and roses play their part. Finally, all season colour and interest are provided by pyracantha, dog wood and coloured foliage plants.
Constant weeding, removing takeaway litter, bottles and cans are ongoing tasks. Replacing coping stones and bricks in the wall bordering the carriageway is a job best left to sub-contractors. Planting is a pleasanter task which will continue in order to make this garden an even more uplifting sight (and site!) for those who pass by.
We want to make a statement to those who see our gardens. This is a community that cares. Civic Pride Rossendale are the proof. The message is getting out.