Growing Perennials and Woody Plants for Cutting

On this established class, Rachel will share her enthusiasm and experience of both growing and arranging perennials and woody plants for cutting.

Inspired by naturalistic planting designs by the likes of Dan Pearson and Nigel Dunnett and feeling the pressures of climate change we have steadily planted more and more of these plant groups in our flower fields and now boast well over a hundred varieties that make excellent cut flowers.

You will learn about the benefits of turning your cutting gardens or flower farms over to a backbone of permanent planting. Why it is better for the environment, less stressful because of their greater weather toleranceand less tiring and time consuming, because of their ease of maintenance.

Perennials and woody plants offer an overwhelming range of species to choose from, allowing you to create a difference with your floristry helping you to develop your own unique signature style. Rachel will demonstrate how she picks, conditions and arranges with them and you will get the opportunity to make up a garden-gathered bunch of your favourites to take home.

Plant selection will be a big part of the day and you are guaranteed to go home with a long wish list and some recommended nurseries to source well grown and interesting varieties from.

Rachel will share how she finds new favourites using her trial beds and the propagation techniques she employs to produce lots more plants. A practical session on seed sowing, summer division and cuttings will ensure you have the beginnings of your own patch to take home. A two course homemade lunch and refreshments made with fresh produce from the kitchen garden are included.

Date: Sunday 7th & Wednesday 10th July 2024

Time: 10am till 4pm

Cost: £190