I was fortunate to have two trips to Barbados during my 2012 working sabbatical in St Lucia. Its a quick 40 minute flight and a change of pace . Barbados has to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and a very keen gardening community. I visited Hunte's Garden, www.huntesgardensbarbados.com It was a truly inspirational garden moment not unlike my visits to Powis Castle in Wales or Sissinghurst in England. The sense of intimacy, plant combinations, colours, and the unique layout was captivating. Under 2 acres in size in a large caldron shape from a collapsed cave thousands of years ago. Bajan Anthony Hunte has created an oasis par excellance in a span of only two years! Evidence of his lifetime in the plant nursery industry. A one way staircase leads down gracefully to the bottom of the garden bowl with paths leading off into intimate garden spaces each complimented by a table and chairs to sit, relax and soak up the atmosphere ( including Maria Callas) I have never seen so many plants so tastefully presented and in such health and vigor, Not a patch of bare earth to be seen! After a relaxing break of packed nibbles in a comfy armchair I ascended the staircase to be dazzled by all the plant beauties I missed coming down. Past a huge chaudiere or cauldron filled with tropical waterlilies to the outbuildings of a past sugar plantation now used as Anthony's residence. He welcomes you onto the veranda overlooking the garden below. I had a very tasty rum punch and wonderful conversations with Anthony and other visitors. A return visit is a must ......Well done Anthony!!! .....at the bottom of my pics im posting the address of a video interview of Anthony found online...It will give an enhanced view of the garden.
Anthony Hunte "Gardener Extraordinaire"
One of Anthony's Arrangements
Ive shown no close-up plant shots !! Another Blog !
VIDEO OF HUNTE'S GARDEN
