Spring is sprung in the garden! David, our much-loved head gardener loses his weather-weary expression (and one of his pairs of woolly socks- he had taken to wearing three pairs at once!) when the snowdrops begin to emerge on Bakers Hill and exudes a new excitement for the start of spring. He begins reciting all the projects he has planned for the fair-weather months ahead and speeds around the garden pushing his wheelbarrow loaded with implements, his willing gardening team trying to keep up with him! We have had a new banner made to let all who pass through the village know that the garden is most worthy of a visit at this time of year, as a walk around it without doubt lifts the spirits. Do come and see this effect, and the snowdrops, for yourself!

Meet The Gardener in 2011

Tuition, inspiration and guidance for gardeners will be at hand throughout 2011 at Gilbert White’s House & Garden in Selborne as David Standing, Head Gardener of over 30 years, shares his wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm as part of the ‘Meet The Gardener’ series of events. Beginning with a fascinating lecture on Wednesday 2nd March at 7.30pm at The Gilbert White Field Studies Centre entitled ‘Gilbert White’s Garden- Cutting New Ground in Garden History’ (previously given to the Garden History Society, London). David, who has dedicated his life and work to unravelling the joys, mysteries and complexities of White’s garden through studying the journals and correspondence, will share with the audience the latest discovery of previously unknown facts about the layout and design of the grounds. It is sure to interest keen gardeners, landscape designers and historians alike, and will make for an entertaining evening.  (To purchase tickets- £15 each, please telephone 01420 511275)

Later in the March on Friday 25th March (10am-4pm) David will hold a ‘Pruning-How To Get It Right’ workshop which offers nervous and unsure gardeners the opportunity to learn the art of pruning. A wide range of shrubs, trees and plants will be discussed and techniques demonstrated so warm clothing and boots will be essential.

The month of May sees David hosting a course entitled ‘The Fragrant Cottage Garden’ where the merits of cottage garden favourites such as cabbage roses, laced pinks and sweet violets, once seen in all cottage gardens but now rarely used, will be discussed and advice given on how to create a delightfully old-fashioned and highly perfumed garden with them.