Welcome to the Llanover Garden School programme of talks, demonstrations and workshops for Autumn 2010 and Spring 2011.

Whether you are a hands-on garden-owner eager to learn and put into practice new ideas, or someone who simply enjoys hearing erudite gardeners in a glorious setting, Llanover has a day to suit you. With the exception of Anna Pavord, whom I am delighted to welcome back, all of this years speakers are bringing their expert knowledge and enthusiasm to Llanover for the first time.

Each Garden School day starts with coffee from 10am, followed by a talk and a delicious two course lunch cooked by Pav Taruschio with wine, an opportunity to ask questions ofour speakers and to explore the garden. In the afternoon, there is another talk, before a home made tea at about 3.30pm.

Once again each lecture day costs £70. I have decided to continue the offer of a special reduced price of £250 when four people book together for the same lecture day. This offer does not apply for the Christmas workshops. Paymentmay now be made electronically to Llanover Garden School (see printed brochure for details or e-mail me) but I am still very happy to receive cheques. Gift vouchers for days at the Garden School are available to give as Christmas, birthday or occasional presents.

Emma Lynch and Kirsty Griffin from Love Lily skilfully lead the Christmas workshops, enabling everyone to make and take home a wonderful Christmas table arrangement and a festive door wreath. These days include all materials. Participants only need to bring a pair of secateurs. The cost is £95 per person. Places are strictly limited to ensure that everyone receives some individual attention.

In addition to going out in the past year listening to and visiting potential new speakers, I replanted the two large borders in the round garden in March 2010 under the professional guidance of Mary Payne. Although the planting will still be young, you will be able to see the first season of a design to create a big effect in the autumn and winter for minimal maintenance. The garden will be opening under the National Garden Scheme on Sunday 5th September 2010 and we are hosting a Rare Plant Fair on Sunday 3rd October. 

With best wishes,

Elizabeth Murray