Knoll Gardens has announced a new programme of practical events running throughout 2013.
Known nationally for its naturalistic style, Knoll's acclaimed gardens have been described as "extensive and impressive" by Roy Lancaster.
The new events will explain some of the secrets of Knoll's year-round appeal, as well as offering a practical insight into planting and maintenance. They add to an established programme of ornamental grass masterclasses and will all be personally led by Knoll's owner Neil Lucas; best-selling author, RHS Council Member and the UK's leading authority on ornamental grasses.
Walk and Talk - Based on a tour of the gardens, the new Walk and Talk sessions provide an opportunity to follow the changing seasons in the garden looking at everything from planting to cutting down and spring flowers to autumn glory. They cost just £10 and take place on 25 April, 16 May, 20 June, 18 July, 15 August, 5 September and 10 October. Each session starts at 2pm.
Practical gardening with Neil Lucas - Three specific topics will be explored in greater depth at Knoll this year. "˜Preparing for Summer' explains how the garden gets ready to create the "˜wow factor' for which it is renowned and takes place on 14 March. "˜Gardening with Gravel' is the topic for 30 May, which will feature Knoll's new gravel garden, whilst the 31 October session explores "˜Knoll's mini-arboretum' taking in the stunning autumn colour created by Knoll's outstanding range of woody plants. Each Practical gardening session costs £15 and starts at 2pm.
Special event - To mark English Tourism Week Neil is leading a special event on 22 March. "˜The modern English Garden in Spring' will look at how best to prepare for the coming season and focus on the demands of the modern lifestyle – how to create maximum year-round effect with minimum maintenance. It costs £10 and starts at 2pm.
Grass Masterclasses - Ornamental grasses continues to be Knoll's specialist subject and Neil's series of Grass Masterclasses takes in layout and design, border preparation, choice of plants, as well as general care and cultivation. In 2013 the Masterclasses take place at 2pm on 12 and 19 September, and 3 and 17 October and cost £30.
"It is always a pleasure to welcome plant enthusiasts to Knoll." said Neil Lucas. "But you don't have to be a gardener to love our style. We have tailored our new events to those looking for inspiration and ideas as much as pure gardening knowledge and hope to offer some enjoyable and relaxing afternoons in our secluded setting here in east Dorset."
