ON the evening of June 7, twenty-five members and friends of the Society visited Bob Brown’s specialist nursery ‘Cotswold Garden Flowers’ at Badsey.

A renowned plantsman, speaker and garden writer, Bob has a reputation for stocking not only good old-fashioned plants but rare and unusual herbaceous perennials bred for colour, form and vigour. Many of these plants have been grown from seed collected by him on numerous global expeditions. He took us on a meandering tour through his well-stocked garden, pointing out some of the more unusual plants, shrubs and trees. Despite originating from sub-tropical climates, some of these specimens are now happily flourishing in our more temperate and sometimes freezing weather conditions. Along with an abundance of other colourful plants, including roses, alliums and poppies, numerous varieties of peonies were woven through the garden in shades from deep red to white and even yellow. Bob explained that at present he is one of the judges for the RHS Wisley’s trial of 148 varieties of peonies to discover which ones are worthy of the ‘Award of Garden Merit.’ After our fascinating horticultural journey the evening ended with members enjoying a well-earned meal at the Round of Gras Inn at Badsey.

Two reminders of forthcoming events: Thursday, June 21 at 7.45pm in the Crawford Hall, Bidford – a talk entitled ‘I’m Not Much Good at Gardening!’ by David Morgan. Sunday, June 24, 10am -3pm – Garden Sale at ‘Woodpeckers’, Marlcliff. Regret cash payments only and all purchases to be removed on the day. Please follow parking signs. Further details on 01789 772708 or www.bidfordgardens.com

JANICE FERGUSON