Gardens are living, evolving spaces, and mine is no exception. Every season brings with it fresh opportunities for change, and this time around, it's not just the plants getting an update—it's the artwork too! Meet the newest members of my garden family: Holly the owl and Finlay and Fergus, two gorgeous otters ~ all carved by the incredibly talented Matthew Darge with a chainsaw!!! I still can’t believe he can create such detailed carvings from solid lumps of wood with something as unwieldy as a chainsaw. Their arrival hasn’t come without a bit of plant shuffling and some serious landscaping though, but the results are worth it.
Holly the Owl’s Perfect Perch
Let’s start with Holly. She has found her home nestled beside a gorgeous red Cotinus and a old Holly bush. Her placement feels almost magical, as if she’s been waiting for this spot all along. With her wise and watchful gaze, she blends beautifully into the scene, now can’t imagine the garden without her.
The Otter Overhaul: Finlay and Fergus Move In
Finlay and Fergus, however, required a bit more work! These guys and their log measure nearly six feet long, which meant their new home called for a serious revamp. Clearing out space for them was no small task, but once the hard work was done, I have started softening the area with plantings that I hope will make their surroundings seem natural. I have planted a combination of Carex and Astilbe around the front. Surrounding them, I planted a variety of flowers to create a layered look. There’s a delicate lace cap Hydrangea, a dwarf red Fuchsia, Foxgloves, and taller Astilbes. I’m hoping that by spring my planting choices will begin to flourish and work together as I’ve envisioned.
A Garden of Whimsy and Charm
Beyond Holly, Finlay, and Fergus, my garden is home to an assortment of quirky characters. While my other half might not share my full enthusiasm for these whimsical additions, I love them and they all make me smile. I keep telling myself that this will be the last of the garden creatures, but then again, you never know what might catch my eye next! Stay tuned—there’s always something unexpected around the corner in a garden that’s forever evolving.
Matt Darge, Chainsaw Artist https://chainsaw-artist.co.uk/
