Like many other charities, Great Dixter House and Gardens at Northiam has had to make significant changes during recent weeks. Many staff, from woodworkers to gardeners, guides to office staff have been furloughed. Volunteers have to stay away.
Many people may not realise that Great Dixter is a charitable trust and at its heart is a unique horticultural training programme. Gardeners of all ages and backgrounds are given the skills and knowledge needed to achieve the highest levels of horticultural practice.
So what is different about Great Dixter? It is committed to providing this training opportunity for people whatever their circumstances. They do not pay to learn at Great Dixter, rather funds are raised throughout the year to provide them with training and financial support as well as to care for the house, garden and wider estate. It is a big task.
Dixter believes strongly in the work it can do to help others, working to support and employ less advantaged individuals and working with local schools as well as horticultural training programmes. This spirit of inclusivity informs the appointment of staff, the student and volunteer programmes and the local initiatives that are supported.
A major part of the work at Great Dixter involves gardening in a way that encourages biodiversity. We are looking forward to working more with local villages and communities to help them adapt their gardening methods and promote suitable habitats and conditions where wildlife can flourish and be enjoyed by all.
Although not open to the public at the moment, work goes on. Fergus Garrett has adapted his approach in the garden and hopes to be able to open to visitors later in the year. Efforts are now going into ensure a good summer display. Obviously a significant part of our income comes from visitors and courses but the team are working hard to provide mail order from the nursery and shop, as well as on-line lectures. Visit the website and sign up for email news on the home page to be informed of future dates.
We look forward to opening our gates again and welcoming visitors old and new. Until then we will be thinking of new ways to allow visitors to enjoy the garden when they return. The Friends are still providing regular newsletters and information, too, if you are interested.
Image Credits: Fergus Garrett .