THE BOG GARDEN.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19849, 19 January 1920, Page 5

THE BOG GARDEN.

BOTANIC CARDEN PROGRESS. . The principal work for the winter m the Botanic Gardens will be the completion of tho Bog Garden. The situation of the now garden is on the western boundary adjoining the new native section. The work of excavation for the pools has been finished, and it might he stated in this connection that the shingle taken out was sold at a rate leaving a substantial margin to credit over the cost of the labour engaged. The plans for the garden, which will occupy an area, of an acre, arc complete, and the work will he commenced almost immediately. The design, which is almost similar to that of the famous water garden in County Donegal, laid out hj y I Sir John Oliphcrt, C.V.0., consists mostly of circles, with the walks just above water level, the pools ranging in depth from 18in to dit. The walks will bo of stone and there will bo bridges crossing from one section to another. The sections will be set apart for plants from various countries. The area will bo open, and the plan provides for a set of stone rustic steps lending from tho native section to the bog garden. The first terrace leading right" round the blockwill be devoted to native plants as far as possible, and the surface terrace will be planted with a good selection of flowering ornamental varieties. “ 1 would like to have a statue of an artistic description to place in the centre of rho centre pool, after the style the celebrated Donegal water garden, stated Air James Youug to a “Star ’’ reporter. I have made inquiries on the matter, but nothing definite has been accomplished so far. I am_ hoping, jbouph, that tho required assistance in tuis direction will be forthcoming.”

It is intended to move the historic sundial, which has for so long stood immediately in front of the curator’s residence, to a position in the Bog Garden. The work of collecting as much native stuff ns possible for the now section is being proceeded with, and otlmr species Mutable for water gardens will be. grown from seed. expected, Mr Wing states, to finish the lay out of the garden for planting bv the end of May.