A Hillside Where Passion Blooms:

My Thoughts on Jimi Blake’s Hunting Brook Gardens

As I turned off the hill in County Wicklow, Ireland, a riot of colour burst into view, defying the overcast sky. This was my first glimpse of Hunting Brook Gardens, and it quite literally took my breath away. Nestled in the rolling hills, this hillside plant spectacle embodies the energy, creativity and unabashed exuberance of one man's vision: renowned Irish horticulturist and plantsman, Jimi Blake.

As you explore this steeply sloping site, you'll experience a diverse array of horticultural habitats that challenge conventional planting design at every turn. What makes Hunting Brook so remarkable is its harmonious balance of progressive horticulture and ecological mindfulness. Vibrant colours, diverse textures, and biodiversity abound, all underpinned by climate-forward thinking. Jimi has masterfully created a space that not only supports wildlife but also enhances mood, despite the challenges presented by the site's steep terrain.

Hunting Brook is a garden I've longed to visit for years. As I wandered through each space, Jimi's tenacity, renegade spirit, and plantsmanship left me speechless and reinvigorated my commitment to creating daring, beautiful, and ecologically sensitive gardens.

Prepare to be inspired by Jimi Blake's passionate gardening vision.

Ashley's Garden: A Riot of Colour

Our visit begins in Ashley's Garden, a dynamic space that feels like the natural heart of Hunting Brook. Named in memory of Jimi's former partner and gardening collaborator, this section is where his most daring and vibrant plant combinations come to life, creating a dazzling display that delights the senses.