NATIONAL TRUST FOR SCOTLAND
Ann Steele is Head of Gardens and Designed Landscapes with the National Trust for Scotland and has an overview of the initiatives that the Trust is implementing in its gardens to promote sustainability.
“A major initiative we're looking into in detail is alternative ways of managing our grass to reduce mowing and encourage nature across all our gardens. This change could be incredibly effective in promoting wildlife-friendliness and increasing biodiversity. We’ve already worked hard to develop improved composting systems and limit the use of pesticides across all our gardens.
"We long ago ceased use of peat in our own growing media not just for sustainability but also to help preserve our native ecosystems and have been actively sharing successful practices across our gardens to ensure a cohesive and effective approach.”
It is though a challenge to balance maintaining pristine Trust gardens for a visitor experience with implementing environmentally-friendly methods.
"It is a balancing act, indeed,” explains Ann, “we strive to maintain the historical and aesthetic appeal of our gardens while making conscious efforts to be environmentally sustainable. It's an ongoing process, but the positive impact on both our gardens and the environment makes it worthwhile. These changes certainly provoke conversations among visitors so it's crucial to have a solid communication strategy in place to explain the reasons and benefits behind these practices. Our goal is to foster a better understanding and appreciation of sustainable gardening among our visitors.”
Simon Jones, Gardens and Designed Landscape Manager for the South and West of Scotland explains that focusing on developing sustainable gardening practices across National Trust for Scotland gardens includes everything from reducing the carbon footprint to promoting biodiversity in the gardens.
"Increasing biodiversity is something we're really passionate about. At several Trust gardens, we've established wildflower meadows which provide habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies. We're also planting native hedgerows and allowing certain areas to grow wild to support local wildlife. These efforts not only enhance the beauty of our gardens but also create vital ecosystems.
“Water conservation is also a big priority for us. We're installing rainwater harvesting systems across many of our gardens. These systems collect and store rainwater, which is then used for irrigation, reducing our reliance on mains water. Not only does this help conserve water, but it also ensures that our gardens remain hydrated during dry spells.
“One of our main strategies is to reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers. Instead, we're employing natural alternatives such as companion planting, which helps deter pests and improves soil health naturally by, for instance, planting marigolds alongside tomatoes to keep unwanted insects at bay."
With soil health being fundamental to sustainable gardening Simon Jones explains, “We're employing no-dig techniques to minimise soil disturbance, which helps maintain the natural soil structure and supports the microbial life essential for plant health. Additionally, we're using more organic composts and mulches to enrich the soil and retain moisture."
One of the gardens at the forefront of trialling sustainable practices in National Trust for Scotland gardens is Greenbank Garden on the outskirts of Glasgow, and Head Gardener Andrew Hinson aims for it to be the most eco-friendly garden in the National Trust for Scotland.
"One of our main focuses at Greenbank Garden is experimenting with biochar and rock dust to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment. Biochar is essentially a type of charcoal that we add to the soil to improve its quality and increase its ability to store carbon. Rock dust is used to remineralise the soil, promoting healthier plant growth.
"We’re also big proponents of composting, mulching, and using green manures. These techniques help us reduce weed growth naturally and enrich the soil without relying on chemical fertilisers.
“I’ve had the opportunity to visit other NTS properties, like Branklyn Garden and Inveresk Lodge, to learn from their practices and share knowledge. The goal is to create a network of gardens all striving to be sustainable and eco-friendly. I genuinely believe that by adopting these sustainable practices, we can set an example for our visitors and encourage them to implement similar approaches in their own gardens.”
Inverewe Garden in the North West Highlands is another garden where there are huge efforts being made to employ sustainable gardening practices and reduce the dependency on chemical fertilisers.
Maddie Geddes Barton who works as a woodland gardener at Inverewe, explains, “One of the key initiatives we're focusing on is enhancing biodiversity by planting native species. At Inverewe, we've introduced a program to propagate and plant 250 Scots pine trees to sustain the genetic diversity and health of our woodland areas.
"Mulching is a cornerstone of our approach. It helps maintain soil moisture and improves soil structure, which is essential for the resilience of our plant life. By using organic mulch, we can reduce the need for artificial fertilisers and pesticides, promoting a healthier ecosystem overall.”
In recent years Inverewe was one of the many gardens hit by devastating storm damage and Chris Wardle, Gardens and Designed Landscape Manager for Aberdeenshire and Angus, notes that, “Storm events presented a unique opportunity, allowing us to reassess and redevelop some of our gardens and habitats with sustainability at the forefront.
“At Pitmedden Garden in Aberdeenshire, they’re focusing on creating resilient landscapes capable of withstanding future extreme weather events by integrating more native plant species and improving soil health to boost the natural resilience of these spaces.
"Another significant initiative is the investment in sustainable gardening practices at Crathes Castle and House of Dun. We’re reducing our reliance on chemical fertilisers and pesticides, instead opting for organic and biodiversity-friendly approaches including the use of composting techniques and encouraging natural predators to manage pests.
“Leith Hall in Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire is another property where sustainable practices are being woven into the garden's fabric, being a great example of how we’re using permaculture principles to guide our planting and cultivation strategies.” By creating a self-sustaining ecosystem, the aim is to minimise external inputs and create a more balanced, thriving garden environment.
The National Trust for Scotland is such a valuable resource for us as gardeners as they lead by example, being able to trial methodologies at scale from which we can all learn.
For Maddie Geddes-Barton sustainable gardening practices starts with, "Mulching to maintain good soil condition, plant small trees that benefit local wildlife, and always consider the bigger picture of how each plant fits into your garden's ecosystem: gardening thoughtfully is one of the most powerful ways we can respond positively to climate change.
For domestic gardeners looking to adopt some of these sustainable practices, Ann Steele advises starting small, “Perhaps by reducing your lawn mowing frequency or by creating a compost heap, and visit our Trust gardens to gain practical insights. Dialogue with experienced gardeners can also provide valuable knowledge and motivation to adopt these practices.”
This is echoed by Simon Jones, “One great way to support is by visiting the gardens and seeing these practices in action. Being a member to the National Trust for Scotland helps us fund these important projects. And for those interested, we always recommend looking into volunteering opportunities—we can always use a helping hand!"
There is so much to discover across Scotland in Trust gardens this summer. Plan your trip today by visiting nts.org.uk.
