On Wednesday, 9th of February, Helensburgh and Gareloch Horticultural Society will be hosting a talk by Melissa Simpson, Head of Gardens at Dumfries House, entitled ‘Dumfries House Gardens and the New Rose Beds’. Melissa brings a lifelong passion for gardening and a great deal of experience to her role at Dumfries House.
The house itself with its exciting, patchy history and last minute rescue from oblivion by Prince Charles, its many and varied areas and its ambitious and impressive plantings is enough to engage anyone’s interest. There is an ethos of sustainability, re-use of old materials, and education in the management of the gardens, which will chime with many of us in the audience.
Melissa will be talking about her work in the gardens, which include an organic educational garden, pleached hedges, a 40 metre delphinium and phlox border, designed landscapes with lakes and woodland walks, traditional parterres and many other features. The gardens are still undergoing restoration in several areas.
Melissa will discuss her work in the gardens in general, and in particular the installation of new rose beds; I’m sure she’ll have some gems of knowledge to share about choosing and caring for roses.
This will be a popular evening talk and open to both members and non-members, with a charge of £5 for non-members (or you can join on the night). Any questions, just complete our contact form.