Gardens opened to the public for charity

The National Garden Scheme allows otherwise hidden gems to be opened to the public.

Ruthall Manor in Ditton Priors will be opening up to visitors on Monday from 1pm to 6pm.

The garden is being opened by owners Lynda and Gerald Clarke. Ruthall Manor is set in an acre of Shropshire farmland, within view of the Brown Clee and is well known for its mature, unusual trees, many of which are in flower this month, including a pawlonia Tree and Eddie's White Wonder.

The front lawns, flanked by borders, extend to a gravel art garden. Throughout the garden, there is a range of wrought-iron work and pottery, along with secluded seating areas. Recently extended, winding paths lead visitors through some new planting combinations and rare or distinctive plants, which reach the old horse pond which is surrounded by irises and primulas.

Lynda said: "The pawlonia tree is like an umbrella of flowers. There is so much to see in the garden, it seems a shame to wait until May 19 and 20 to open." Home-made teas will be served and jigsaws will be for sale – bring or buy.

Also opening up to visitors is a garden in Birmingham with more than 1,000 varieties of plants.

Number 50 Pereira Road in Harborne will open on Sunday from 2pm to 5pm. The garden features large plants with African connections, fruits, vegetables, herbs, grasses.

More than 100 varieties will be available for sale. This garden slopes steeply and access to some areas may be difficult for less mobile visitors. The front garden is on five levels and the rear garden is on three.

The National Garden Scheme is a chance to visit private gardens all over the country opening their gates to the public for a fee.

Last year, the National Garden Scheme donated more than £2.7 million in total to charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie-Curie, Hospice UK, the Carer's Trust and several smaller charities.

For more on Shropshire's private gardens open to visitors, go to ngs.org.uk.