Anne Callaghan, one of the organisers of the Fence open gardens weekend, on her
pride and joy . . .

DESCRIBE YOUR GARDEN

It is what I’d call just a normal garden. It’s not overly large, it’s just at the back of the house. When we moved to Fence 17 years ago it was just grass and since then I have filled it up as best I can. We wanted to make it more private, so we put fencing up and there was a substation which we have grown bushes around to hide it. We must have done a good job because when workmen come to look at it they can’t find it!

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE GARDEN?

At the moment I’m just getting everything ready for our open garden weekend on July 13 and 14. We are one of 10 houses in the village opening our gardens to raise money for Pendleside Hospice. They are all within walking distance and we sell a programme for £4 which includes a map. We aim to raise at least £1,000 every year so I’m busy getting everything into shape for that.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO GARDENING?

It was through my neighbour at our old house in Burnley. She inspired me as she had such a beautiful garden and even now she still gives me advice and sorts out my gardening problems. It’s good to have someone who knows what they are doing to call on.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FEATURE?

I’d say that would be the pergola as it provides some nice shade and I can sit there and admire the whole garden. The problem usually though is that I’ll sit there and notice something that needs doing, so I’ll get up and start working again. I also enjoy the hanging baskets which provide a lot of colour. The secret is to keep them well watered. Even if it’s been raining you’ll probably still need to get the watering can out.

HOW MUCH DO YOU SPEND ON THE GARDEN?

No more than around £100 in the summer season. Like many gardeners friends tend to offer me cuttings and plants because they know I love my garden. Most of the money is spent on fertiliser and feed.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY GARDENING?

I just think it’s very therapeutic. The whole process is very satifying when you see things come to fruition. Sitting in the garden is so relaxing. When you have an event like the open gardens weekend to work towards and you know that you are raising so much money for a great cause, then it is even more rewarding.

HAVE YOU SUFFERED ANY GARDENING CATASTROPHES?

None really that I can think of, although the weather can be pretty challenging, especially for the open garden weekend. I hope that the weather is kind this year as we have had a couple of fairly miserable summers. But it hasn’t stopped people coming out and supporting us magificently.

TOP GARDENING TIP

Make sure you keep your plants well watered, especially your hanging baskets, and feed regularly. I use tomato food which seens to do the job well.

  • Fence Open Gardens Weekend is on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14. Programmes are £4. More details from Anne on 01282 693485. Plus: shopping for gardeners — page 16