Naturalistic garden celebrates 30-year anniversary

Neil Lucas and his family bought the four-acre Dorset site in 1994

Knoll Gardens, near Wimborne, Dorset, is celebrating 30 years under the ownership of Neil Lucas and his family, who bought the site in 1994.

The four-acre site has evolved over the last three decades, with an ornamental grass nursery and naturalist garden.

Following the principles of naturalistic gardening, parts of the gardens have also been reshaped, with new zones created such as the dry meadow and rain garden.

Knoll is a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) partner garden, earning 10 gold medals the RHS Chelsea flower show between 2002 and 2011.

The Knoll Gardens nursery also supplies other acclaimed gardens such as the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew

Mr Lucas' extensive knowledge of ornamental grasses, is credited with making him one of the country’s leading experts.

The garden's charitable organisation, the Knoll Gardens Foundation, helps gardeners to work with nature and adapt to climate change, through courses, masterclasses, educational events and research.

It said much of the data it collects through surveys is shared with local and national organisations to inform future conservation.

Knoll said in a statement: "Managed in harmony with nature, the gardens are increasingly a place of sanctuary for wildlife.

"Their serenity is also a balm for human visitors and a number of workshops and activities, in keeping with the calming environment, can help build a sense of well-being."

The 30-year anniversary is being marked with a replanted Dragon Garden and a series of new interpretation boards telling the story of the gardens, and a new website.

Workshops and activities, including yoga, painting and photography, take place at the gardens