A TEAM of horticulture apprentices from Wiltshire College & University Centre’s Lackham campus have transformed the front garden of 300-year-old home in time for Trowbridge Flower Festival.
The students applied their horticultural expertise to ensure rambling roses planted at Parade House in Fore Street, Trowbridge, will be in full bloom just as the festival begins next week.
Assessor Victoria Fiander said the college was asked to help plant out the garden of the Georgian town house, built for wool merchant Robert Houlton in around 1720, just four weeks ago. “Normally we would like a year to plan and grow for a project like this but fortunately we had the roses we have been cultivating as part of our national collection and they were perfect for it.”
The team of four students, who are studying a Level 2 Horticulture or Landscape Operative apprenticeship, worked carefully to transfer the plants, which were propagated from plant stock in 2022, to the garden.
“The students worked really hard,” said Victoria. “They began by carefully inspecting each plant and applying precise pruning techniques to maintain its health, form, and structure.
“Lifting the roses from the beds was particularly challenging due to their well-developed root systems, substantial size, and the presence of key rose leaders – strong, healthy stems that emerged after last year’s flowering and will carry this year’s blooms. The students identified the new, flexible growth at the ends of older stems and carefully tied these leaders into the support structure to guide their development. With a bit of sunshine and regular watering, we’re hopeful they’ll be in full bloom just in time for the start of the festival next week.”
The students carefully weeded the planting beds and incorporated peat-free compost to refresh the borders. The added organic matter not only improved the appearance but also provided essential nutrients to help the roses thrive.
Victoria said she found it rewarding to see the students applying the theory they had learned in practical lessons. “It was fascinating to watch their thought processes unfold as they worked,” she said.
“I stepped back and allowed them to take the lead, offering guidance only when necessary. It was a real team effort. Site presentation is incredibly important, and it was gratifying to see the students demonstrating such attention to detail throughout the process.”
The festival is organised by Trowbridge Chamber of Commerce and features 50 businesses around the town entering displays. Membership & Events Director Megan Witty said she was delighted the college was able to take part at such short notice.
“We were so pleased Victoria could rustle up some very keen and able apprentices to come and plant the roses at Parade House,” she said.
“The small team worked incredibly quickly and brilliantly and not only did they plant the roses, but they also did some weeding, raised some flowers up and filled some planters. They were so friendly and lovely and we were just delighted that they could come and help. What they have done is wonderful.”
The students were proud to take part in the project and represent their college, said Victoria. “It’s incredibly rewarding for them to see the outcome of their hard work displayed in such a prominent public setting,” she said.
“It’s a great reflection of the high standards we uphold at the college and also highlights the dedication and expertise of our staff, who work tirelessly to promote the horticulture industry and support students in developing successful careers.”
The Trowbridge flower festival runs from May 20 to September 28. Find out more information on their website.
