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Did you know...

• Sunken areas of the rain garden are designed to manage the run-off of heavy rainfall, allowing water to drain through its gravel surface into free-draining soil below, where flood tolerant species are planted
• The two paving areas are also both permeable: the small pavers are bedded in with free-draining sharp sand and the large pavers have gravel 'fillets' in between them
• Three beautiful Betula nigra, also known as river birch, punctuate the perimeter of the show garden 

About the garden

Promoting the sustainable management of rainwater in our gardens to reduce urban flooding, this garden highlights the importance of ‘Downstream Thinking', an initiative led by South West Water that explores the different ways that Britain's gardeners can best manage excess rainwater. 
 
The garden’s fluid curves flow towards a central, circular terrace and water feature. Rainwater is managed by a rain garden that follows the shape of the path leading off the terrace. Permeable paving on the path and terrace helps reduce water run-off from the garden's hard surfaces. Flood-tolerant planting has been selected, as well as a mix of perennials and grasses that are best suited to well-drained soils and drier conditions.