An Italian garden laid out in the countryside near Bewdley in the 1970s is fast becoming a source of inspiration for gardeners keen to learn about the effects of climate change.

Arley Arboretum has been a source of delight and inspiration to gardeners for many years and boasts woodlands, borders, ponds and formal gardens.

The team of gardeners, led by Michael Darvill, are incredibly knowledgeable, and their work on such a large scale can translate well for smaller gardens and those who want their plots to become a welcome home to wildlife.

Mr Darvill said: “It seems that with a changing climate the more traditional cottage gardens may be more difficult to create.

“The stunning Italian garden at Arley Arboretum is currently at its peak and is a formal garden utilising many Mediterranean plants both hardy and resistant to drought and heat.

“More often these are also not only visually beautiful but also deeply scented.

“We have used these plants because, as a rule of thumb, anything with a scented leaf comes originally from a hot and dry climate, and will flourish in this kind of garden.

“The Italian garden was first established in the 1970s and provides a valuable insight into how these mature.”