News from the gardening world
New Ascot Spring Show will inspire gardeners of all ages and abilities
Ascot Racecourse has unveiled its plans for its inaugural garden event next April. The first nonracing venture being directly run by the historic Crown Estates operation will be co-partnered by neighbouring venue The Savill Garden and The Valley Gardens at Windsor Great Park, whose expert staff will provide horticultural content such as lectures and advice. David Domoney, co-presenter of ITV’s Love Your Garden, Garden will be headlining a talks theatre, which will showcase a range of expert speakers.
Also confirmed are 35 high-quality, specialist plant nurseries selling bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, shrubs and tender conservatory plants, along with 60 gardenrelated trade stands to help visitors to get their gardening year off to a flying start. Visitors will also be able to take advantage of the award-winning dining facilities at the famous racecourse. The three-day event is expected to attract over 20,000 visitors, and will showcase six attainable gardens under a ‘Town and Country’ theme from award-winning and up-and-coming garden designers.
The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) will also create a demonstration garden, showing visitors how to create various garden features throughout the event, masterminded by Stephen Bennett, previously shows director at the RHS.
“Tradition and quality is what we are known for,” said Alastair Warwick, Ascot’s chief operating officer. “These elements will be embodied throughout our new show and we want all our visitors to have a fun day out.”