Most of the Parks lies on light soils overlying gravel, limiting the range of plant material which can be grown. Plants which tolerate these conditions have been carefully selected. 

TREES: note purple, golden or variegated foliage, including mature copper beeches; interesting leaf forms, notably fine cut-leaved beech near pond.

SCENT: lime trees throughout Parks, particularly in evenings.

SOUTH WALK: an avenue of summer-flowering tulip trees and bean trees.

WEST, NORTH and LUCAS WALKS: flowering shrubs and perennials which enjoy light, well-drained soils, including many silver-leaved plants. 

HAYRICK BORDER: colourful herbaceous perennials, including a collection of Salvias, many of which are not hardy, for late summer interest.

RIVER WALKS: pathways into Mesopotamia and across High Bridge into the meadows beyond.

The LEYS, MESOPOTAMIA and adjoining fields have native plants which are not mown until late July, to allow them to seed.