Judy and Andy Slade have turned their garden into an amazing oasis
An incredible garden at a Broadstairs bungalow features everything from roses and lilies to palms and even banana plants.
The compact oasis of greenery and blooms has five distinct areas set off a small winding path with a soothing, Buddha water feature, giant flamingo, wooden toadstools, ‘The Jungle’ hideaway with keyboard and speakers, evening lighting and bursts of colour throughout.
The garden is the lovingly-nurtured creation of Judy Slade and son Andrew who took five years perfecting the layout but say the work is ‘ever evolving.’
The mum and son duo had hoped to enter the St Peter’s Open Gardens but covid hit and the event was not revived, meaning they have not yet had the chance to share their amazing space.
The pair bought their home 20 years ago and say it is the first time they had a garden big enough to follow their passion.
Initially just a couple of flowerbeds and apple trees, the garden has been transformed and now boasts a wide range of plants and blooms from rice-paper plants to Agapanthus, ferns, Yukkas and the banana plant that has produced some tiny bananas.
Retired garden centre worker Andy, 60, said: “It evolved over time. We had the arch first and then worked from there. I like the jungle plants and mum likes her cottage plants.
“We are constantly changing it, some things work, some don’t. It’s nice in the summer and it’s peaceful in the evenings with the lights on the plants.”
Retired card shop worker Judy, 80, said: “The clematis flower in May and the tree peony blooms in April/May and they are huge flowers, it’s stunning.
“When you are out here it is just like being in a jungle!”