Part of the magnificent RHS gardens at Harlow Carr in Harrogate on a hot Sunday afternoon when it was good to find so many seats in the shade. This is taken beside the little stream.
Although there were very impressive displays of flowers and plants it was very interesting seeing the amount of research going on especially in helping to combat pest and plant diseases. Trials are ongoing in establishing which types of lawns are most beneficial for bees and insects and different types of garden layouts indicated those most helpful for encouraging hedgehogs which are in great decline. The design of the new research library is of great interest in showing how using various methods of design a building can be made using sustainable materials or are best for the environment.
Inspite of the entrance fee the numbers of visitors of all ages seemed to find it a place in which to enjoy themselves and I think it was well worth our detour.