We had a very successful and interesting Study Day on 1st November at Reaseheath College.

Our first lecture was “Some Talented Women and their Association with Historic Gardens” by Maureen Thomas.  It was a fascinating insight in to some of the women who have not let convention stand in the way of their horticultural endeavours.  The women included botanical artists, amateur botanists, authors and landscape architects, many of whom are unsung heroes (or should I say, heroines).

Our second lecture was “A Wildegoose Chase” by Jack Willgoss from Wildegoose Nursery, Shropshire.  This was an inspiring talk about of how Jack and his wife, Laura, gave up secure employment in pursuit of their dream of starting their own nursery and in turn restoring a Georgian walled garden and glasshouses of national significance.  What they have achieved is truly amazing and I am sure a visit to Wildegoose Nursery will be on the list for our Summer outings.

http://www.wildegoosenursery.co.uk/

The plant sale was also a success with a huge range of plants to choose from, including some young Puya mirabilis plants grown from seed provided by Roy Lancaster at last year’s 40th Anniversary event.