BBC Gardeners World Live NEC APL Avenue

The APL’s "Where There's Water, There's Life" garden highlights the vital connection between water, plants, people, and nature.

It focuses on innovative design techniques that slow down water flow, ensuring it is conserved and used effectively in garden landscapes before it returns to the ground.

The garden features a raised walkway that crosses over the pond, offering a unique perspective of the water below. A playful ephemeral ‘rill’ connects from the pergola green roof to the pond, flowing past the deck, adding a soothing sound and visual interest, whilst capturing rainwater following a cloud burst.

Natural overflows from the pond into a rain garden as well as permeable surfaces allow water to infiltrate into the ground below.

Habitat for wildlife other than freshwater species is nestled in amongst planting contributing to a garden oasis for wildlife. Whilst a shady seating area offers the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the pond's tranquil beauty.

By combining beauty with sustainability, this garden demonstrates how thoughtful design can enhance both the aesthetic and ecological value of outdoor spaces, creating environments where water nurtures life, promotes biodiversity, and strengthens our bond with the natural world.

Garden Designer: Rachel Bailey

Lead Contactor: Dan Ryan