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From Rob Potterton

Talks for garden clubs and societies.

Drawing on forty years of nursery life, these talks are practical, informative, and down to earth, presented by a nurseryman rather than a lecturer. Five talks are available, and questions are welcomed throughout. Overseas enquiries are also welcome.

Part of the audience at Alexandra Garden Club in New Zealand 2019
Part of the audience at Alexandra Garden Club in New Zealand 2019.

Talk 1

Alpines & bulbs - from mountains to market

Memories and experiences from the AGS seed-collecting expedition to the mountains of south-west China in 1994, followed by a brief look at the methods used to raise these seeds and establish plants in cultivation. About 60 minutes.

Talk 2

New Zealand 2019 - plants, people & gardens

In 2019 Rob was invited to present a number of talks to garden groups in New Zealand. This talk shows a portion of that trip, including plants in the wild and in the gardens of the people we visited. About 60 minutes.

Talk 3

A labour of love - 40 years at Pottertons Nursery

A special talk commissioned by AGS Denmark in March 2009. The history of the nursery from its founding in 1971 as Potterton and Martin, and how it has developed over four decades, including building the display gardens. Propagation methods, cultivation, preparation for flower shows, mail order, and much more. About 60 minutes.

Talk 4

A beginner's guide to growing alpines, bulbs & woodland plants

A practical talk giving the listener the information needed to grow this range of plants in their own garden. 45 to 50 minutes.

Talk 5

Special nursery challenge

An amusing, light-hearted nursery and plant themed quiz with spot prizes - always popular but demands audience participation. About 60 minutes.

Booking

Talks are usually presented October to March, but occasionally at other times of the year. Generally evenings, though mornings and afternoons are possible. We're prepared to travel anywhere in the UK and will consider engagements in Europe or further afield. Equipment is supplied, but use of a large local screen is appreciated. We can also bring sales plants or pre-booked orders.

Fee from £100 plus 30p per mile. Please contact Rob for more details.

Rob Potterton on The Big Snow Mountain in Yunnan, China
Rob Potterton at 16,500 ft on The Big Snow Mountain in Yunnan, China.
Gentiana veitchiorum growing on the Bei Ma Shan
Gentiana veitchiorum, Bei Ma Shan, Yunnan.
Gentiana nanobella growing on the Bei Ma Shan
Gentiana nanobella, Bei Ma Shan, Yunnan.

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