Gardening implements could be expensive, especially the larger ones like stone rollers which would be used to flatten lawns in large gardens. These were usually pulled by men as there was concern that if horses or other animals were used the lawns might be damaged. Casual labour would often be used for this purpose supervised, of course, by the head gardener.
At the start of the 19th century the Laird, William Watt, employed Lochaber man and experienced gardener, Hugh Ross, to lead the team of gardeners at Skaill House.
“Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace.” – May Sarton
“For me the Big Tree has always stood somewhere near where the rainbow ends” – Stanley Cursiter
Melsetter House overlooks Longhope, Hoy, and was built in 1890 designed by the Arts & Crafts architect William Richard Letharby.
Once an indispensable feature in the grounds of all big houses, The Doocot (Dovecot) provided a source of meat for the laird’s table.
John Sinclair was a gardener at Kierfiold, Sandwick in the late 19th century
During the years of World War 2 Woodwick House, Evie with its wonderful garden was put to valuable use as a rest home for servicemen – Toc H, Pilgrim House.
In this the fourth in the series Lost Gardens of Orkney, we explore the growth in Council Housing and the pride people took in their new homes and gardens.
Allotments are rented strips of land mainly for growing vegetable and fruit. They are excellent for those who have no gardens or need more space. During both World Wars the growing of fresh vegetables was an important part of the war effort.
