The Journeys and Plant Collections of William Lobb are explored this month by Mark Paviour from Wigmore in Herefordshire. Employed by James Veitch & Sons of Exeter, William Lobb was one of the Victorian Plant Collectors responsible for many of the plants we have in our gardens today, including this Crinodendron or Chinese Lantern Bush.

Mark has been involved in horticulture for forty years including managing a nursery, Head Gardener of seven prestigious gardens, and arboricultural work. He now works free-lance and is co-owner of Paviour & Davies Plants which specialises in South American plants.

Also in June Great Bridgford have their “Scarecrows and Gardens Sunday” on June 10th from 10am to 5pm and Eccleshall Open Gardens Weekend is June 16th – 17th.

Barlaston Community Group also have some garden-related events between May and June. This coming weekend –  Sat 12th & Sun 13th May 2pm-5pm – Barlaston Hall opens for the National Gardens Scheme and on May 29th at 7:45pm Hooks Green Herbs – Barlaston Gardens Question time at Barlaston Village Hall. Further details on the website.