Philip Wood and David Wilson explore the garden of Helen And Val Dillon, in South Dublin.

Described as a "spacious town garden" with one formal feature.... its length which is "surrounded by a bewildering variety of plants" it truly is a garden to be "admired by all". Helen guides Philip through her garden and narrates her plant choices vibrantly - such as calling her Lobelia tuba "a bit menacing looking"!

With poppies, dahlias and orchids, there is much to see with Philip exclaiming that her roses are in "perfect form... they really are beautiful"! Ever the perfectionist, Helen is critical of the colour scheme in a part of the garden stating that the "orange with the pink rose behind it, it really won't do. But at the same time it's doing so well". Also featured on the episode, are David's top tips on pruning clematis's. 

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