This summer has been challenging. In the absence of rain, we targeted watering with watering cans to where it was most needed and made use of the harvested rainwater collected during the winter months at our Wychfield Site. A handful of plants thrived: Wisterias in Front and Avery courts; the Fig tree in North Court, which fruited generously; and, at Wychfield, Salvia yangii and a Campsis growing up Wychfield House. Otherwise, plants have endured.

Hotter, drier summers lead us to think of how to adapt. We anticipate the need to choose drought-tolerant plants in future planting; hylotelephium over hydrangeas. We can plant more trees for shade, and make the most of the shade we already have with well-placed outdoor seating. Future development of Wychfield offers the possibility of collecting more rainwater, adding to New Build’s existing water collection.

In late July, the Gardening team had its annual Garden Visit – this year to Burghley House, near Stamford. Head Gardener Joe Whitehead showed us around the garden. He drew our attention to the recent addition of new paths: hard landscaping that helps define the area and encourages exploration. We particularly admired the towering Douglas Firs and the Capability Brown landscape. From the Private Garden, we enjoyed views of the House on one side, and, on the other, of the lake and hills beyond.

Gardening is about exchange with nature and with other gardeners. When we meet it is a chance to share knowledge and experience, and to find inspiration in one another’s work. We look forward to welcoming Joe and his team to Trinity Hall in October. While not on the same scale, we will be glad to share the beauty, particularity and intimacy of a College garden.

In recent weeks, the rain has returned, to the relief of gardens and gardeners alike. Autumn is sometimes called a second spring because, after the extremes of summer, there is fresh growth and rejuvenation. Accordingly, in the Old Library border, dahlias (pictured), Mexican daisies, cosmos, heleniums, anemones and salvias stand in abundance, ready to welcome in the autumn.