Explored The Newt Hotel for a Pruning Workshop using Premium Japanese Tools - Here's My Insight
In a mere stone's throw from London, The Newt offers a serene sanctuary that seems worlds apart. As rain gives way to sunshine upon arrival, it sets the stage for an enchanting journey. Stepping into the hotel's resplendent gardens, vibrant tulips and blossom-laden apple trees adorn the pathways, evoking a fairy tale ambiance.
With a pair of razor-sharp secateurs in hand, I was tasked with pruning the trained apple trees. As a gardening novice, the fear of inadvertently harming these intricately maintained specimens loomed large, but with the right tools, it proved a therapeutic and enjoyable endeavor. These tools, a collaboration between The Newt and Japanese gardening tool brand Niwaki, epitomize quality.
Piqued by the beauty of the twisted apple blossom trees, I sought guidance on the art of pruning from expert gardener, Andy 'Apple' Lewis, and Niwaki founder Jake Hobson. Creative pruning, as they explained, is not only about maintaining plant health but also about shaping and sculpting plants to create visual interest in the garden.
Creative pruning encourages a holistic perspective of the garden rather than viewing it simply as a collection of individual plants. Jake, author of "The Art of Creative Pruning" and "Niwaki: Pruning, Training, and Shaping Trees the Japanese Way," elaborated that creative pruning encompasses various techniques like topiary, fruit tree pruning, Japanese cloud pruning, and traditional methods such as 'crown raising.'
Armed with newfound knowledge, I returned to my own urban garden, seeking to recreate the enchantment of The Newt. Sculptural interest, seasonal adaptability, and an expression of creativity—these are the hallmarks of a garden beautifully crafted through creative pruning.
The Nuances of Creative Pruning
The Newt's gardens are a testament to the perfection and craftsmanship of creative pruning, nowhere more evident than in the twirling trained apple trees adorning the landscape. This approach challenges one to view pruning not merely as maintenance but as part of the garden's overall design.
The term 'creative pruning' implies a thoughtful, intentional approach to pruning, taking into account the impact on the garden as a whole rather than just a single plant. Jake emphasized that this includes common techniques like topiary, fruit tree pruning, Japanese cloud pruning, pollarding, coppicing, and 'crown raising.'
By adopting a holistic approach, creative pruning fosters visual interest in the garden, adding sculptural elements that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This is an alternative to costly architectural additions or dramatic art pieces, making it a cost-effective and imaginative solution for garden design.
Starting Your Creative Pruning Journey
Overwhelmed by the prospect of pruning Andy's expertly trained apple trees, I quickly learned that intimidation was a barrier to be surmounted. Andy, one of the top gardeners at The Newt, emphasizes that the aim is to inspire and enthuse visitors, not intimidate them.
The Newt hosts ten fruit pruning workshops annually, offering visitors a hands-on experience and invaluable tuition from the experts. In the absence of formal training, beginning the pruning journey is as simple as diving into a project with a young tree or twig, experimenting with shapes and designs to discover one's unique creative expression.
Essential Tools for Creative Pruning
Beyond a suitable tree or shrub, essential tools for creative pruning include a good pair of sharp secateurs, well-balanced shears, and a pruning saw. Proper care, cleaning, and sharpening of these tools are crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable pruning experience.
High-quality Japanese gardening tools, such as those offered by Niwaki, are a worthwhile investment, combining excellent design with superior functionality. Andy echoed this sentiment, noting that while budget offerings may seem appealing, working with low-quality tools can alter one's experience, making the process more difficult than necessary.
Training a Fruit Tree
The artful fruit trees at The Newt, patiently pruned to lean uniformly along walls or twist into spirals, exemplify the dedication and skill behind creative pruning. Training fruit trees is an excellent starting point for novice pruners as it results in immediate rewards, both visually and in the form of fresh produce.
Jake and Andy encourage aspiring pruners to explore their creative visions, visiting gardens like The Newt for inspiration, and observing the techniques used to achieve such captivating results. They suggested using plants from local growers or garden centers and speaking with experts to help guide the pruning process and create the desired design.
A Garden Fit for All Seasons
Creative pruning extends the garden's appeal by adding visual interest throughout the year. In spring, the blossoms of trained fruit trees create a beautiful spectacle, their shapes highlighted against a wall. Throughout the summer, the plants continue to grow, providing an opportunity for further sculpting and the enjoyment of new growth. Autumn brings a bounty of colorful fruits ripe for harvest, and winter reveals the intricate structure beneath the dropped leaves, standing as a testament to the pruner's artistry.
With careful pruning, espaliered or trained fruits can maintain beauty and visual appeal even during the cold, dreary winter months. By incorporating architectural plants and evergreens, one can create a layered, complex garden that remains captivating year-round.
Niwaki's durable gloves offer protection and comfort during pruning sessions, making them an essential addition to any gardener's toolkit. thoughtfully designed tools like the Daikiba Clippers and beautiful walnut and carbon steel secateurs make exceptional gifts for fellow gardening enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the enchanting gardens of The Newt showcase the artistry and ingenuity of creative pruning. With dedication, experimentation, and proper tools, one can transform a humble garden into a living masterpiece, brimming with visual appeal and rewarding fresh produce.
As I departed from The Newt, laden with fresh produce, I carried with me not only the bounty of the edible garden but also the inspiration to realize my own creative vision in my urban plot. My journey into the world of creative pruning had just begun.
- The pursuit of creative pruning involves not only maintaining plant health but also shaping and sculpting them to create visual interest in the garden.
- By adopting a holistic approach to pruning, one can foster visual interest in the garden, adding sculptural elements that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
- Armed with newfound knowledge, I returned to my own urban garden, seeking to recreate the enchantment of The Newt, with sculptural interest, seasonal adaptability, and an expression of creativity as the hallmarks of a well-crafted garden.
- Inspired by The Newt's gardens, I carried with me the bounty of fresh produce and the vision to realize my own creative pruning endeavors in my urban garden.
- In the absence of formal training, beginners can start their pruning journey by diving into a project with a young tree or twig, experimenting with shapes and designs to discover their unique creative expression.
