Join Christine Pritchard for an informal and supportive workshop with lots of opportunities to discuss aspects of the garden that are relevant to the coming gardening season. This might range from pruning and propagation to lawn maintenance. You will be introduced to a range of plants that will make your garden more beautiful every spring. We will concentrate on the decorative aspects of your garden so we will not cover fruit or vegetable production. The aim is to make every…

A drawing course to improve your drawing and your observational skills, with instruction and guidance from a qualified teacher. Located in the glasshouses, each morning you will be encouraged to make studies from a unique botanical collection from climates across the world. For all abilities with a curiosity for drawing from nature in an inspiring environment. Wednesdays 11am – 1pm 10 classes Fee £115 Maximum of 8 people Testimonial : "Thank you for the course. It was really great and…

A stroll around the Botanic Garden really raises your spirits whatever the weather. Curator, Nick Wray, will be leading his first tour of the year to show some of the secret surprises in the garden in winter. Delight in the fragrant plum blossom of Prunus mume which features in so many Chinese silk paintings. Also look out for hellebores, winter box, snowdrops, winter aconites and crocus through the Garden. The Curator will then guide you into the different worlds experienced…

Growing vegetables is hugely rewarding and with more people taking on an allotment for the first time or growing vegetables in a small home plot. Informally taught without exams or tests this evening class will give you a chance to grow your own vegetables with confidence and meet like- minded growers from the surrounding area. Our expert will explain the basics of setting up a growing space; including maintaining a healthy soil, crop planning, crop rotation and plant families, common…

Traditionally the first green spring growth was important for country dwellers as a welcome relief from the stored food of winter, high in fat and protein but low in vitamins and minerals. Many of these spring herbs were known to be active against scurvy due to their high vitamin and mineral content. The high mineral content probably plays a major role in the cleansing action of these herbs on the lymph, kidneys and bowels and can be important in helping…

A not to be missed opportunity for a small group interested in plant and garden photography to spend a day working with professional photographer Graham Parish. Join Graham for a guided walk around the Botanic Garden to identify Spring highlights followed by the opportunity to capture high quality images with guidance from the tutor. The day will conclude with an informal, friendly discussion about your achievements from the day and a chance to ask further questions. Anyone wishing to improve their digital outdoor photography should benefit from…

Now an established event in the South West arts and gardening calendar, this year’s Festival features more sculptors than ever before, working in a wide range of different materials. The Botanic Garden provides a unique setting with its own backdrop of sculptural elements including soaring bamboos, prehistoric tree ferns, giant leaves and exotic treasures in the glasshouses. Refreshments will be provided by the wonderful Chandos Deli in the Holmes. More information to follow.

An introduction to the exciting world of propagating plants. Your tutor Julie Henderson will guide you through the various methods of creating new plants. You will learn the principles behind plant propagation with a general overview of the basic types of propagation for the home gardener; including seed collecting and sowing, division, layering and the various types of cuttings, including some houseplants. The practical session will focus on what is suitable for the time of year, but the skills you…