British Winter Gardens : Their Application in Finland
Sarikoski, Caroline (2024)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024121736536
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024121736536
Tiivistelmä
The objective of this thesis was an examination of contemporary winter gardens in Britain so the application of ideas to parts of Finland could be ascertained. Context for the study was provided through a comparison of vegetation between these regions. Observed climatic changes for the Finnish winter period have also been considered in conjunction with this subject. Additionally, the potential horticultural, social, environmental and economic benefits of such places have been assessed.
The initial part of the research consisted of visits to twelve public gardens in England, Scotland and Wales. This was conducted in January 2024 with the financial support of The Rikala Fund, Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) and Finland’s Horticultural Association. An investigation of parks and public gardens in southern Finland was the second phase of inquiry. Specialists from the horticultural and landscaping field were consulted to establish the viability of implementing ideas or taxa used in Britain. The availability of suitable plants for the country’s southern regions constituted the third part of my research, requiring contact with several Finnish nurseries.
The form of the study was that of an article-based thesis. As a subject holding novelty-value yet being applicable to parts of the landscaping scene, dissemination through relevant publication channels seemed a sensible approach. Due to a background in literature and the editorial world, presentation of the material through articles was also regarded as appropriate. While the publication for The Finnish Association of Landscape Industries provides an overview of British winter gardens, the article for Häme University of Applied Sciences reveals an awakening interest in winter vegetation among Finns.
Findings show that while the range of attractive plants for the cold season is currently not as wide as that found in British winter gardens, there is still much that could be applied. Additionally, the broad repertoire of conifers and other suitable taxa that Finland already hosts should not be underplayed. Some of the relevant plant material is already supplied by nurseries here and their representatives have showed interest and willingness to increase the range of species and cultivars.
Complete replications of winter walks from Britain have not been the purpose of this study, but rather adaptation. Consideration of limiting factors included the consequences of heavier snowfall and the effects of photoperiod on vegetation despite milder temperatures. Phenological studies and the possibility of increasingly shorter, milder winters nonetheless indicate that the application of certain aspects of winter gardens in southern regions is feasible.
The introduction of taxa formerly regarded as too tender for Finland can be viewed as an expansion of horticultural richness. Undertakings of this nature cannot be regarded as risk-free and sound knowledge of plants and locations is crucial for designers. Nonetheless, judicious implementation offers opportunities to enhance well-being, the environment and economy, providing enjoyable recreation and activities for both locals and tourists.
The initial part of the research consisted of visits to twelve public gardens in England, Scotland and Wales. This was conducted in January 2024 with the financial support of The Rikala Fund, Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) and Finland’s Horticultural Association. An investigation of parks and public gardens in southern Finland was the second phase of inquiry. Specialists from the horticultural and landscaping field were consulted to establish the viability of implementing ideas or taxa used in Britain. The availability of suitable plants for the country’s southern regions constituted the third part of my research, requiring contact with several Finnish nurseries.
The form of the study was that of an article-based thesis. As a subject holding novelty-value yet being applicable to parts of the landscaping scene, dissemination through relevant publication channels seemed a sensible approach. Due to a background in literature and the editorial world, presentation of the material through articles was also regarded as appropriate. While the publication for The Finnish Association of Landscape Industries provides an overview of British winter gardens, the article for Häme University of Applied Sciences reveals an awakening interest in winter vegetation among Finns.
Findings show that while the range of attractive plants for the cold season is currently not as wide as that found in British winter gardens, there is still much that could be applied. Additionally, the broad repertoire of conifers and other suitable taxa that Finland already hosts should not be underplayed. Some of the relevant plant material is already supplied by nurseries here and their representatives have showed interest and willingness to increase the range of species and cultivars.
Complete replications of winter walks from Britain have not been the purpose of this study, but rather adaptation. Consideration of limiting factors included the consequences of heavier snowfall and the effects of photoperiod on vegetation despite milder temperatures. Phenological studies and the possibility of increasingly shorter, milder winters nonetheless indicate that the application of certain aspects of winter gardens in southern regions is feasible.
The introduction of taxa formerly regarded as too tender for Finland can be viewed as an expansion of horticultural richness. Undertakings of this nature cannot be regarded as risk-free and sound knowledge of plants and locations is crucial for designers. Nonetheless, judicious implementation offers opportunities to enhance well-being, the environment and economy, providing enjoyable recreation and activities for both locals and tourists.