About the garden – Small garden
Into The Forest is inspired by the unique oceanic woodlands of the west of Ireland, evoking the beauty of these ancient forests.
A lush green canopy is provided by Betula (birch) trees, one of the many species that formed the oceanic woodland. Beneath them mosses and ferns thrive, while a meandering boardwalk leads occupants past mossy boulders to a serene reflective pool. This captures the changing light of the sky above and the foliage of the deciduous canopy. Along the journey, a sculptural bench offers a place to pause for thought and remember that time spent immersed in nature is good for us.
This garden celebrates tranquillity, offering a restorative connection to a unique ecosystem. It is bursting with plants, inspiring visitors with shady, mossy gardens to lean into the practice of shinrin-yoku (“forest bathing”) and create a sustainable and serene slice of nature in their own gardens.
About the Designer
Sarah Cotterill is the winner of this year’s Cultivating Talent initiative, sponsored by Westland Horticulture.
Sarah is an Assistant Professor in Civil Engineering at University College Dublin with expertise in sustainable water management. Prior to her PhD in water engineering, she completed an Honours Degree in Biology, introducing her to plant physiology, classification and nutrition, as well as strategies for managing different ecosystems.
Garden design provides Sarah with an opportunity to integrate her expertise in sustainable water management, her knowledge of plants, and her love of drawing and design. This is her first show garden for Bord Bia Bloom.
About the Sponsor
Founded in Northern Ireland, Westland Horticulture helps create thriving gardens. Whether it’s perfectly blended compost, nutrient-rich feeds, or extraordinary tools, gardeners rely on us to help them give it their best.
What is planned for this garden after Bloom?
Many of the garden’s elements, including plants, the sculptural bench and the mossy boulders, will be donated to the Ballina Sensory Park. This community-led project is currently in the build phase and aims to support the needs of people who are neurodivergent while also adding nature value to the local area. It is designed around a series of sensory spaces creating areas for engagement and places for introspection.
Designer Information
Email: wildatlanticgardens@gmail.com
Website: www.wildatlanticgardens.com
