Gardens and Playspace

When the new residents of Baberton Mains took possession of their new houses in the 1970s, each house had their own garden.  It wasn’t the custom then for the developer to turf ether back or front, the most that was offered was a tree planted in (some of) the  front gardens.  One day, in 1977, just after we had moved in I came upon a couple of Wimpey workmen who were planting a bird cherry in the front garden.  There was no choice as to the species of tree – just the next one from the Wimpey lorry.  This tree flourished and apart from the fact that the birds fell upon the little black fruits in the autumn, making the pavement slippy with the spat-out fruits, it was quite attractive.

Many people planted potatoes as a first crop, back and front.  The received garden wisdom I believe is that it is the working of the soil, digging, planting and harvesting that improves it rather than anything much the potatoes add to it.  The soil itself was a heavy clay needing the addition of much organic matter and even grit.  It is of an acid pH, which I believe is pretty general throughout the estate, and ericaceous plants tend to grow well in it.

Dotted about the estate were some open spaces.  There were many rumours circulating about what these might be used for.  I clearly remember being told we might have a corner shop or even a pub.  And there was an expectation that we might even have some play equipment for the many children who stayed here.  Alas, as often happens nothing transpired and so we have turfed areas even today.  In the middle of the estate there is a mound of earth with a tarmac path around it and most use seems to be that of a dog walking area. At the bottom (or north) end of the estate, there is a grassy area parallel to the railway and bordered with shrubs.  Children had great fun playing football and cricket and of course making dens to hide in.

Nonetheless, there are some spectacular gardens growing all manner of soft fruit, vegetables and flowers.  See our gallery which brings the growing to life, and please send us your photos of your garden or greenspace if you live in Baberton Mains, or if you have any photos of before the estate was built.