Philip Wood and David Wilson explore the garden of Brian Wood in Dublin. 

Setting the scene on a summers day in July, Philip describes Brian's plot of land as a "unique small garden which is distinguished as being on two levels and has a third area which is on a non-perpendicular rock face... and everywhere one is reminded of Brian's world wide travelling". An example of such travelling evidence is the Cuphea cuproides from Mexico which are reminiscent of "little dragons".

There are various different influences which shape the landscape of the garden, one being Japanese, which is portrayed with several Bonsai trees. Plant life is not only confined to the garden, it also bleeds into the conservatory with views of terrariums seen... which also hold geckos from Madagascar!

Late Philip Woods developed an encyclopaedic knowledge of botany and horticulture and bred new varieties of plants and flowers for the nurseries in Northern Ireland. Before he settled down in NI he served in the Royal Corps of Signals and saw active service in many countries around the world during WWII. After the war, Philip took up the post of manager of the Slieve Donard Nursery in Newcastle, County Down. He was also one of the founding members of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team and was appointed as its first leader. Later when retired, he devoted his time to designing gardens and providing advice, sharing his knowledge through gardening classes, lectures, newspaper articles, radio programmes.

A UTV Production.

Video Editor : Philip White

Produced and directed by Ruth Johnston 

• NI Direct - PRONI