Gardeners discover botanical gardens

FROME Selwood Horticulture Society (FSHS) held two talks over the past two months- in August the members heard a talk called, ‘Why create botanic gardens?’ and in September members listened to a talk called, ‘Enjoying plants in Autumn’.

Organisers say, “On possibly the hottest evening of the recent heat wave, members and visitors of the FSHS sweltered through an educational talk by Ann Brake entitled ‘Why create botanic gardens?’ A question well asked as we experienced the demise of so many of our own plants due to the drought conditions.

“The pertinent answer was that the University of Bristol Botanic Garden plant collection focuses on creating an evolutionary collection in particular for Mediterranean plants; in addition, studying local flora and rare native plants and finally but not exclusively, the study and preservation of useful plants, notably for medicinal purposes.

“This was a weighty topic ably delivered by Ann, a volunteer and retired geography teacher.  She made perfect sense of all she said, and then posed the question, ‘Is there anything that does not come from plants?’ The evolutional dell at the Botanic Gardens which follows 500 million years of plant life, answers that and more, and visits are highly recommended.

“The summer competition for the best Geranium New Century Violet was won by Bob Gallup, closely followed by Victoria Turner, Rosa Pearce, Val Norvall and Daniella Blackmore.

“Malcolm Mills from Castle Gardens, Sherborne followed in September with a practical talk on ‘Putting Your Garden to Bed’.  He corrected the title to ‘Waking up for Winter’ or ‘Enjoying Plants in Autumn’ as the seasonal bulbs and perennials bring such pleasure as well as providing pollen for bees.  Malcolm suggested Geranium Rozanne as a particular favourite along with grasses, Echinacea, sedum and Japanese anemone for the great colour of both the flower and then seed heads.

“But as the talk was about getting ready for winter, trimming and pruning was addressed, as was dividing of plants and composting in preparation of the soil for spring and possibly a ‘No Dig’ method. Other topics covered included creating insect habitats, considering pest and diseases; lawn, pond and greenhouse care; frost protection and project planning.  There was much for the attentive audience to consider as they departed into the cooler and by now dark autumnal night.”

The FSHS meet for topical talks on the second Tuesday of the month at Critchill School, BA11 4LD at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. Please contact Jane Norris, 0777 6208531 jane.norris9@ gmail.com for more information.