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Artist John Morley and his transformative impact on the world of snowdrop cultivation explored.

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Artist John Morley's Impact on the Transformation of Snowdrop Art World
Artist John Morley's Impact on the Transformation of Snowdrop Art World

Artist John Morley and his transformative impact on the world of snowdrop cultivation explored.

In the heart of England, nestled among tall yew hedges that buffer against the easterlies, lies the picturesque garden surrounding the home of John Morley, a landscape painter and serious snowdrop enthusiast. This is the setting of North Green Snowdrops, the oldest snowdrop nursery in the country, which Morley is now closing after a remarkable journey in the world of snowdrop cultivation.

Morley's most notable discovery is 'Trumps', a snowdrop variety with heart-shaped markings, growing to about 6in tall, and boasting broad, grey-green foliage. This vigorous snowdrop, which bears the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (AGM), is just one of the many unique varieties that Morley has cultivated over the years.

Morley's passion for snowdrops began in the 1970s when he met his wife, Diana, while teaching at the Royal Academy. Their shared love for these delicate blooms led them to a set of near-derelict cottages on a Suffolk estate, which they transformed into their home. Today, the rambling old brick floors and richly colored rooms are filled with Morley's paintings, engravings, books, and ceramics.

From the first catalogue published in 1984, North Green Snowdrops listed 22 different snowdrops, ranging from £2.50 to £5 per bulb. Over the years, the catalogues evolved, with Mr. Morley's exquisite woodcuts, paintings, and line drawings giving way to glossy photos and increasingly exciting rarities. Some of the notable varieties include 'Rodmarton Regulus', a large-flowered snowdrop with long and boat-shaped outer segments and a broad, X-shaped marking on the inners.

Another unique variety is 'Hoggets Narrow', an autumn-flowering snowdrop from the Hiemalis Group, known for its exceptionally long outers and a broad inverted V on the inners. The anthers shine through the petals once mature, giving a warm orange glow just below the ovary.

Morley's circle of highly knowledgeable friends included Tate's deputy collector, Priscilla, Lady Bacon, and the grande dame of snowdrops, Primrose Warburg. His motto was to "try everything", and eventually, his snowdrops began to interbreed and produce interesting crosses. One such cross is 'Gold Dust', an extremely long flower with a bright-gold bridge mark at the apex of the inner segment, held on a short golden pedicel. Its fragrance and elegance make it a standout among the snowdrops.

Another remarkable variety is 'Juliet Berkeley', originally from Ellen Willmott's garden at Warley Place, Essex, and rescued by her great niece. Its inner segment is washed in soft green, with a prominent dark, rich-green mark.

A potential new variety will be twin-scaled and brought on for three years before being named and sold as a distinct plant. This process, combined with Morley's dedication to his craft, has resulted in a legacy that will continue to inspire snowdrop enthusiasts for years to come.

As Morley prepares to close North Green Snowdrops, he leaves behind a rich history of snowdrop cultivation and a garden that continues to bloom with the delicate beauty of these early spring flowers. His impact on the world of snowdrops will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.

  1. John Morley's passion for snowdrops extended beyond gardening, as his home is filled with paintings, engravings, books, and ceramics that reflect his interest in various aspects of lifestyle, including art and literature.
  2. In addition to clothing and makeup, fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts may find delight in North Green Snowdrops' unique snowdrop varieties, which have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit and showcase a wide range of appearances and characteristics.
  3. After retiring from snowdrop cultivation, John Morley's former home, surrounded by beautiful gardens and tall yew hedges, could serve as an inspirational setting for a home-and-garden television show or book, showcasing its history and the captivating beauty of its seasons.

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