Bruce led the morning tour of the two gardens and environs. His knowledge was invaluable to us in the identification of species.The two gardens contain an excellent collection of exotic trees from all parts of the world - Japan, China, the Americas which had been planted at the beginning of the 20th century. Bruce quickly guided us through some of the trees' characteristics - bark, leaves and at this time of year, fruit. The collection is particularly attractive in its flowering period in the spring. In the first garden we looked at Manchurian Walnut and Snakebark Maple. Moving into the park we admired Turkish Hazel , Persian Ironwood and Tibetan Cherry. Onward into the second garden we appreciated the Kausa Dogwood, Blue Bean Tree, Judas Tree, Foxglove Tree, Tree of Heaven and Black Beech. Our walk continued below the gardens where we encountered yet more exotics including the Tulip Tree.
Lunch was taken on the relatively comfortable benches surrounding the tennis courts. In the afternoon we set off on a circular walk which included a steep descent to join the Meanwood Valley Trail. We had a brief stop on the bridge above a waterfall for a photo then continued on the Trail, a road ascent and a return on the flat path through the woods. The warm temperature and colour of the trees added to our enjoyment of the day. Surprisingly there were several floral species both native and garden still in flower. As the gardener commented, there had been no frost to date this year. Also a specked wood butterfly was spotted. Several fungi species were hunted down by those with a mycological interest. They included Glistening Inkcap, Earthballs, Shaggy Parasol, Shaggy Inkcap, Shaggy Scaly cap, Artist/ Southern Bracket and Turkey Tail. Birds were scarce. A jay was seen, long tailed tits and robin heard. The day was nicely rounded off by the consumption of Sue's delicious mince pies.
Margaret