Spring highlights in the garden at Acorn Bank

Spring has arrived and new life is emerging every day in the garden. From the cloud-like blossom in the apple orchard to the scent of wild garlic in the woodlands, a visit to Acorn Bank at this time of year is a feast for the senses.

Daffodils within the woodland
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

1. From early March to late April hundreds of Edwardian daffodils are in bloom in the orchard. See how many of the 16 heritage varieties you can spot, the oldest of which dates back to the 1600s. If you’re visiting towards the end of April, you’re more likely to see the white pheasant’s eye variety.

Snakes head fritillaries in the orchard at Acorn Bank
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

Whilst strolling through the orchard, keep an eye out for the delicate, chequered snake's-head fritillaries dotted within the long grass under the apple trees. These come in shades of purple and white which flower from April to May.

Crown Imperial outside the dovecote
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

In April, clusters of bell-shaped flowers of the Crown Imperial spring up outside the dovecote. This beautiful plant originates from Turkey and is a member of the lily family.

Damson blossom in the Herb Garden at Acorn Bank
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

4. Pear, damson and apple blossom blooms in late April/early May, adding a bubble-bath frothiness to the garden and attracting butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects.

Wood anenome in the Walled Garden, Wild Garden and Herb Garden
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

The fairy-like, star shaped wood anemone arrives in the Herb Garden, walled garden and Wild Garden next to the Crowdundle Beck in April. Wood anemone is indicative of ancient woodland.

In May the scent of wild garlic fills the woodland
Acorn Bank   Cumbria

If you’re in the woodlands a little later in spring, through to May, you’re likely to notice the strong scent of wild garlic. These leafy green plants have a delicate white flower and both the leaves and flower are edible.