A Visit to Kew Gardens

A post from StarNotes by Jenny Dent

I am slowly recovering now from my months of illness, and was happy to be taken recently on a visit to Kew Gardens. I found it deeply inspiring to see at first hand how the scientists and horticulturists are working in so many ways to heal our beautiful planet.

At the time of my visit, a new garden had just been opened within this vast and wonderful green space, (near Richmond, Surrey), beside the River Thames Thames. It's the 'Carbon Garden' and at it's centre an iconic statue of a giant mushroom! To quote the information leaflet: 'Carbon can be found in all living things, and while human activities have released an alarming amount of carbon into the atmosphere, trapping heat and warming the planet, plants and fungi are our natural allies in climate repair. The garden showcases nature's power to combat climate change across distinct zones.'

It's fascinating!

In another part of the garden, 'Of the Oak' is an extraordinary digital artwork, with sound and changing colour, which 'offers a unique window into life within the Oak and a chance to learn about its vital role in the ecosystem.' The display stands nearby the magnificent Luccombe Oak, and is based on study of this very tree.

All the trees at Kew are inspirational and the 'Tree Trail' highlights eighteen magnificent trees sited around the 500 acres of the gardens.

To quote the information leaflet:

'Every tree at Kew has a story to tell. Some have stood for centuries, silent sentinels amidst an evolving landscape and world...Each tree is a source of knowledge, helping scientists in their mission to conserve the rich diversity of plant life on our planet.'

I found it all so moving, and my visit has given me greater hope for the future. I truly believe that our Star work with our Earth Healing Service, combined with the amazing work of our scientists, environmental and horticulture experts, will see 'miracles' happening in the years ahead.