Return of the natives

The appearance of common spotted orchids in Val’s garden remind her of a visit to Great Dixter 25 years ago

- Val Bourne

I WAS seduced by meadows more than 25 years ago, after visiting Christopher Lloyd’s Great Dixter garden in East Sussex. It was May, and as we went along the lanes there were patches of deep-pink hardy orchids. When I arrived at the garden I was surprised to see that the meadows surrounding Great Dixter were studded with common spotted pink orchids (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) as well.

The garden was wonderful. It was a Sunday and there was a smell of roast beef. Bang on cue, Christopher and his two dachshunds appeared. Sadly, he passed away in 2006, but I treasure his books and Meadows, published in 2005, is my favourite.

Great Dixter was acquired by Christopher Lloyd’s parents in 1910. It had been on the agent’s book for 10 years and was semi-derelict. There was no garden at all, just areas of meadows and apple trees. Christopher was the youngest of six children born to Nathaniel and Daisy Lloyd, and he lived there for his entire life.