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Blakedown Landscapes to transform RHS Wisley's iconic borders with Piet Oudolf

02 Jan 2024 | BALI Member News

Accredited Contractor, Blakedown Landscapes is proud to be selected as the principal contractor working with RHS Garden Wisley and internationally acclaimed landscape designer Piet Oudolf to transform the iconic Glasshouse Borders.  As creator and figurehead of the New Perennial Movement, Piet Oudolf will create a fully immersive perennial paradise while retaining the much-loved views of Wisley’s Glasshouse.

Blakedown, working collaboratively with the RHS Garden Wisley team, will focus on the grading and preparation of the new beds ready for planting and the creation of new self-binding gravel hillside footpaths lined with mild steel edging which will curve through the new landscape. Allowing for the topography of the site will be essential in creating a multi-level planting canvas and creating the sweeping corners of the meandering path network.  Ancillary works will include drainage and block paving.

The original Glasshouse Borders were created by Piet Oudolf more than 20 years ago. The re-design, which will be known as the Oudolf Landscape, aims to transform the borders into a more contemporary and sustainable landscape and focuses on plant communities and planting that is more environmentally friendly.  It will be one of the largest and most significant examples of Piet Oudolf’s work anywhere in the UK and will allow visitors to become fully immersed in the experience.

Chris Wellbelove, Director, of Blakedown Landscapes said:

“We are hugely proud to be part of this iconic transformation at RHS Garden Wisley.  The Oudolf Landscape will be a key moment in the history of the iconic glasshouse borders and will not only give visitors an emotional experience but will be focused on mitigating climate change and increasing biodiversity to create a truly sustainable landscape for the future.  Our collaboration with the RHS Garden Wisley Team is an evolving process where we are continually making detailed changes and working within the contours of the site to ensure the planting is featured in the best way possible and creates a truly immersive experience.”

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