THE WORLD of gardening is more than just your plot, more than your flowers, vegetables or shed.
It is an industry that gave birth to garden centres (known as the ‘tea and a wee’ which were born out of the Sunday trading laws when only garden centres could trade on a Sunday); an industry that created independent family firms – not in the Godfather sense but in specialist nursery vein, with gifted horticulturists.
Overseeing all of this, awarding excellence in the field for plants, nurseries and gardens is the Royal Horticultural Society. For over two centuries the RHS have been the benchmark of good growers, great plants and gardening knowledge.
Your experience of gardening may not go beyond your own plot and your local garden centre. You may never have experienced the wonder that is the RHS floral marquee and independent nurseries (you can see this year’s Gardeners’ World Live RHS Floral Marquee at http://www.youtube.com/LifeonPigRow).
The great thing about a show like Gardeners’ World Live is the chance to dip your toe into the world of horticulture. You can see gardens that inspire, see plant combinations buy from the RHS Floral Marquee to take home with you, attend talks with gardeners, ask advice of knowledgeable growers and find a plant for every location, every soil type, every problem patch you may have in your garden.
When you buy a plant at a show, it is more than a plant, it is reminder of a journey, of a day you spent taking notes, talking with fellow gardeners, growers and volunteers who are passionate not just about gardening for themselves but about spreading the word about gardening.
Gardening is not just a bug that bites, it is a practical skill that enriches the soul and feeds the belly.
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