Tempting themes to garden by
Two gardening events this week have chosen worldly, but very different themes to entertain visitors. Harrogate Autumn Flower Show’s theme ‘Postcards from the Hedge’ recalls famous plant hunters, such as David Douglas, Ernest ‘Chinese’ Wilson and Reginald Farrer, who scoured the temperate world for hardy garden plants to decorate the gardens of the western world. Local Yorkshireman and alpine plant expert Reginald Farrer travelled from his home in, North Yorkshire to Asia. Renowned for his eccentric behaviour, he used a shotgun to spread seed on rock cliffs to achieve a natural effect. Exhibitors at the Great Yorkshire Showground will have travel-themed displays and there will be special talks on plant hunters by experts. The annual giant vegetable competition will also be a star attraction. Harrogate Autumn Flower Show is being held from Friday to Sunday, September 15-17, 9.30am-5.30pm, (Sunday, 4.30pm). ● Visit www. flowershow.org.uk; tel: 01423 546157. Get your poncho at the ready as Lullingstone Castle, near Dartford, Kent, is launching its first Mexican Celebration Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, September 16-17, from 11am-5pm. Owner and modern-day plant hunter Tom Hart-Dyke will lead two Mexican plant tours of The World Garden, including Mexico and the ‘Hot & Spiky’ Cacti House. Mexican musicians and ethnic food will add to the carnival atmosphere. ● Visit www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk; tel: 01322 862114.