Students and staff at Bridgwater & Taunton College have had the opportunity to create a demonstration garden within The Walled Gardens of Cannington, to illustrate how every garden can become sustainable.

The majority of the materials in the design were items that had previously been used, meaning the conception of the garden was also sustainable. The garden demonstrates how to reduce water consumption by storing rainwater, and by using various materials to mulch the soil. Various composting systems are displayed, including a home-built recycled pallet composter, plastic and wooden bought systems, a leaf mold heap and a food waste wormery.

Wildlife are encouraged into the garden to enhance the eco-balance and the natural control of garden pests. This was achieved by integrating log piles and a ‘bug house hotel’.

Donations for the project came from Mole Valley Farmers, Somerset Waste Partnership (who provided the team with recycling facilities in Somerset), and Carymoor Environmental Trust – a charity that promotes environmental education.

To demonstrate how natural energy can be harnessed, the garden area includes wind and solar powered equipment. Plants adorn the garden in the form of a living roof and wall to show the different ways they can be displayed. Creations from a local artist of up-cycled furniture and ornaments will be used in an innovative fashion to embellish the garden for the summer.

Workshops about sustainability are available to schools or groups, and include a guided tour of the area, or self-led trails for children and visitors with entry to the gardens.

Large groups (min.15 people) are also welcome, but must be booked in advance. £12 per person, includes guided tour (by prior arrangement), hot drink and a slice of cake.

For more information please contact The Walled Gardens of Cannington on 01278 655042 or email walledgardens@bridgwater.ac.uk