The daisy-chain of water on different levels provides the central axis of the garden as it is seen today. As the soil is lime-free, there is scope for rhododendrons, camellias and other ericaceous plants, which flourish in the acid soil. The 26 inches (660 mm) of rain each year and moist position resulting from the presence of pools and streams are ideal for candelabra primulas, irises and bog plants, which are a feature. It is supposed that the pools, which are fed by numerous underwater springs, greatly moderate the temperature as they seldom freeze over, and there is often a blanket of warm mist which keeps off severe frosts. Be that as it may, the range of plants grown is certainly a surprising one for Northern Shropshire, and many more tender shrubs have been introduced experimentally. The favourable soil and temperate climate also produce conditions that allow trees such as beeches, oaks, sycamores and limes to attain great size here.

Hodnet Hall is of great interest as an example of a garden which has been carefully planted to provide a show of colour throughout the seasons. The daffodils and blossom in early spring are followed by a burst of rhododendrons, Exbury azaleas, laburnums and lilacs, and then by paeonies and roses, astilbes and primulas. The summer borders, the masses of hydrangeas and the late summer shrubs follow on, and in the autumn there is brilliant foliage and berries.

Since 1966 the gardens and house have been developed and cared for by Sir Algernon and Lady Heber-Percy with a small team of dedicated gardeners. The Victorian house, whose condition had severely deteriorated, was reduced in size in 1967 by removing the original roof, tower and top floor to make it more manageable to live in. Each month there are plants and trees in colour, and visitors retum to see the gardens throughout the season, knowing that there is always something new and interesting to admire.