Philip Wood and David Wilson explore the garden of Dorothy Brown in Ballymoney, County Antrim.

Set in half an acre, this garden should be "very encouraging for anyone starting a new garden" as just four years ago, it was a bare field. This exposed site, on a southernly slope has been developed by Dorothy to "cultivate a great variety of plants". However, there have been stumbling blocks... One of these stumbles is her pony, who also enjoys a wide variety of plants, which led Dorothy to wonder what to plant, "which she won't eat"!

Also featured is Philip's tips on creating an alternative to a rockery, inspired by a tree stump which Dorothy had brought in. This prop, lends itself to growing tiny plants which otherwise she might have difficulty with.

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.

An Ulster Television Production. 

Produced and Directed by Ruth Johnston 

• NI Direct - PRONI