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Dry Weather Unearths Centuries-Old Garden Secrets
13 Aug
Summary
- Hot, dry weather revealed traces of centuries-old gardens.
- Garden designs from the 18th Century became visible.
- The phenomenon occurs when grass roots burn faster than lawn roots.
Months of hot, dry weather have led to the surprising discovery of historical garden features and building traces. At the Bishop's Palace in Wells, Somerset, visitors have been fascinated by the reappearance of 18th-century garden designs. The dry spell has also exposed relics of old structures at Glastonbury Abbey and Longleat House.
The phenomenon is attributed to variations in grass root depth. Grass planted over older flowerbeds or stone structures often has shorter roots, causing it to dry out and burn more quickly during hot weather. This creates a distinct visual contrast with the more established lawn areas.
James Cross, head gardener at the Bishop's Palace, reported that some ancient garden remnants have appeared in spots previously unnoticed. The ongoing dry conditions continue to reveal these historical layers beneath the landscape.
