24th September
For the first talk of the new season we welcomed a returning favourite speaker, Phillip Aubrey. Phillip is the former Director of the Oxford Botanic Garden and we were treated to a masterclass in the art (or science) of propagation in all its forms.
Seed and vegetative methods, including layering and grafting, were thoroughly explained, including the pros and cons of each, and all were illustrated with practical demonstrations. Phillip also shared his expertise on tried and tested tools, equipment and materials offering more tips and tricks than even Mary Berry could muster.
The session concluded with a selection of questions, comprehensively answered and there were plants for sale in addition to cards from original watercolours by Liz Aubrey.
For experienced and novice gardeners alike this was an informative, inspirational evening and gave a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘Go forth and multiply!’