Our March speaker was Glyn Jones, who for the last 2 years has been responsible for all 5 gardens of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. He has impressive plans to develop the gardens over the next ten years and to give each its own separate Shakespearean identity. Already 88,000 bulbs have been added to extend the gardens’ period of interest, and 170 plants listed in Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets are to be planted at Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Care is also being taken by the Trust to protect the environment. Replacing mechanical equipment with electrical and battery powered, means that two sites are now considered carbon neutral for mowing. 30 rescued hedgehogs have been released into safe territory at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

We next meet on Saturday, 14 April, at 2pm at Crowle Parish Hall, WR7 4AZ, when Heather Godard-Kay will speak about ‘Ferns’. Heather is from specialist growers Fibrex Nurseries and her talk covers the history of ferns; and their cultivation, propagation and use in the garden. She will also have plants for sale. Visitors are welcome at £3 and there will be a raffle and refreshments available. For more information visit: www.worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk.

JAYNE SAVAGE