April 2017

Our recent visit was to Swines’ Meadow Nursery, Market Deeping, PE6 8LQ run by Colin and Karen Ward. The weather was inclement but the visit was enjoyed by all who attended. Colin gave a most informative talk of the plants in the woodland garden, all hardy to our climate but rare and unusual. The Nursery was open and many bought plants seen on that evening. Excellent refreshments were served by Karen in the lecture room and Colin extended his talk, to include plant health and after care. Members extolled his advice from experience, of the products recommended. We are so lucky to have a gem of a Nursery right on our door step.

The next meeting is on 10 May, 2017 at 6.30p.m. to the home of Ms Faulconbridge, 5 Burton Lane, Whatton in the Vale, NG13 9EQ. The charge for the meeting is £5 to include refreshments.

March 2017

The club met on Wednesday 8th March, 2017 in the Village Hall, Rippingale to hear a talk by Robert Potterton on the subject ‘A Labour of Love- Forty Years of Pottertons Nursery’. The talk was well attended and the members enjoyed hearing the back story of the Nusery and how it all began. The Nursery was founded by his father whose job was a lumper on Grimsby Fish Docks, his hobby was growing carnations and on achieving the highest accolade in this field moved on to grow tomato plants, but a visit to Compton Acres in 1964 inspired a move into Alpines. By 1968 he had a greenhouse full of Alpine plants and had met Alan Martin a fellow enthusiast. Over a number of years they further cemented their interest and ambition and in 1978/9 their hobby became a buisness- Potterton and Martin. He left the fish docks purchased a one acre field at Nettleton and by 1980 it looked like a proper nursery. Robert visited New Zealand as a zealous young backpacker and was inspired to grow New Zealand alpines and later on his return to England world wide alpines. Marriage, further land purchases, the death of both his much loved father and his buisness partner Alan Martin, sees a nursery - Pottertons, covering 7 acres run by Robert and a dedicated team. Having received the highest awards in all the major shows Robert now sells form his Nursery and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs. His plants brought on the evening both for sale and on screen as illustration of his talk delighted all present.

The next meeting is on 12 th April, 2017 at Swines’ Meadow Farm, Market Deeping, PE6 8 LQ when Colin Ward will give a talk. The charge for the meeting is £4 per person to include refreshments.

December 2016

The club met on 14th December, 2016 for their Christmas Social Event, the final meeting of the year. Gill Hadland of Great Glen near Leicester was the guest speaker. Gill had earlier this year been with the Alpine Garden Society on a three week plant hunting expedition to Peru. Her talk ' Plants, People and Places of Peru' gave a most comprehensive overview of an enthralling experience which must surely be on everyone's wish list. The season was late summer, the countryside dressed in it's splendid best attire. Her slides took us on a journey to sites featuring plants of familiar genus - Gentiana; gentianella; viola; lupin; euphorbia; orchids; salvia; ranunculus............ but with much diversity in species of which we had never seen or heard. Plants were mostly low growing in high altitude, clinging to the rock scree surface, seemingly with little to sustain. She had focused on the unusual, photogenic, exquisitely coloured specimens which were quite spell binding. Gill's talk also covered fauna, archeological sites, monasteries as well as major cities and their environs. It was much enjoyed and well attended.

The club now goes into winter recess with meetings resuming in March 2017, the next speaker is the well known Nurseryman and Alpinist Robert Potterton. As a forward notice the club will hold a Plant Sale in the month of May 2017-- details to follow next year.

November 2016

The club met on 9th November 2016 to hear a talk by Geoff Stebbings on 'Irish Gardens'. After training at Kew Geoff took up a post as Head Gardener at Myddleton House. A career in journalism followed writing books and magazine articles with a spell as editor of Garden Answers. His most recent appointment has been as Head Gardener in Ireland restoring and creating a private garden. This has afforded him time to visit private and publicly owned gardens covering a number of counties in east, west and southern Ireland, taking numerous photographs through which he lavishly illustrated his talk. Ireland has rainfall and a climate which conspires to grow well and vigorously, such verdancy evident in every image incontrovertibly proving why Ireland is the Emerald Isle. Powerscourt Garden Co. Wicklow is one of Ireland's greatest showpiece gardens. Mount Usher in the same county ranged along the River Vartry in a glorious sheltered valley was inspired by William Robinson who eschewed formal Victorian bedding schemes in favour of a more naturalistic style. The jewel seemed to be Ballymole Co. Cork where the blending of the productive and ornamental, the recent and historic, the formal and the informal come together in perfect harmony.

The next meeting is on 14 th December 2016 at 7.30.p.m. in the Villlage Hall Rippingale PE10 0 TA when Gill Hadland will give a talk on 'Plants, People and Places of Peru' This meeting is also our Christmas Celebration when Drinks and Canapés are served after the talk.

October 2016

The club met for their first meeting of the new season on Wednesday 12th October, 2016 to hear Steve Lovell of Lincoln speak on the subject 'Perennials for Every Season'. Steve has been a garden designer for 25 years, he is an adult education tutor and has recently taken up lecturing for a cruise ship company. He is also a wildlife photographer and creates wildlife gardens for schools to use in National Curriculum schemes of work. He spoke at length on the definition of a perennial, die back and resurgence and choosing the right plant for the right place, soil and climate / weather conditions. He discussed waves of fashion in gardening and plant associations. He extolled the importance of plants beneficial to insects and wildlife. His well illustrated talk and excellent cultural growing tips was enjoyed by a good attendance of returning members.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 9th November 2016 in the Village Hall Rippingale PE10 0TA at 7.30p.m. when Geoff Stebbings will speak on the subject 'Irish Gardens'. New members to the Club are always welcome.

September 2016

The club resumed indoor meetings on 14th September 2016 and began the evening with the Annual General Meeting.The Chairman Sharron White was able to report another very successful year of meetings and garden visits, she thanked the club officers and also Janice Diess and her team for the refreshments served at every meeting. The membership continues to grow and although the Treasurer Margaret Ayres recorded in her report that there had been a slight loss on the year, the club is generally in good heart. The Secretary Elizabeth Forman thanked all those present for all they contribute to the ethos of the club.

The AGM was followed by a talk given by Gill Tomkinson entitled 'Lavender and Pinks' Gill 38 years in horticultural trade had brought plants from her Nursery- Lavender Blue and gave a very comprehensive talk on varieties and cultivation.

The next meeting is on Wednesday October 12 at 7.30.p.m. PE10 0TA when Steve Lovell will talk on 'Perennials for Every Season. This meeting starts the new programme for 2016 /17 with the full programme listed on the website.

April 2016

The most recent and well attended meeting of Rippingale and District Gardening Club on April 13th, 2016 saw the return visit of Dr. Andrew Ward of Norwell Nurseries and Gardens, Norwell, Newark. Andrew is a much respected authority on hardy perennials, specializing in rare and unusual herbaceous plants, many of which were for sale on the evening. He is an erudite speaker with knowledge and understanding borne out of years of study and great enthusiasm for an eye catching form. His recommendations are to be well trusted, as are his tips on cultivation, which are always freely given. An evening spent with Andrew is one of great pleasure and delight.

The next meeting sees the start of garden visits. On May 11th, 2016 at 6p.m. we will be at the garden of Brian and Hilary Smith, Thatched Cottage, Ashton, Stamford PE 9 3 BA. The charge for the visit which includes refreshments is £3.50. Please let Sharron know if you intend to visit.

March 2016

The Club resumed meetings in the Village Hall, on Wednesday 9 th March 2016 with a well attended talk given by Pam Tatam of Hall Farm, Harpswell, Gainsborough, entitled 'Focal Points'. Pam examined a number of means to achieve focal points to focus attention in a garden. She used as examples images taken from her own splendid and imaginative three acre garden and introduced the club to a number of other gardens which thrilled and delighted the audience.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 13th April 2016 in the Village Hall, Rippingale PE10 0TA at 7.30 p.m. when a talk will be given by Dr. Andrew Ward of Norwell Nurseries and Gardens, entitled ' Thoughts on a newly researched species'. Andrew is a truly excellent speaker with a phenomenal knowledge. He runs a nursery specializing in rare and unusual herbaceous perennials and alpines and will bring pre ordered plants with him on the night. His catalogue with hundreds of photographs and in- depth descriptions can be found at www. norwellnurseries.co.uk.

December 2015

The Garden Club held their last meeting of the year on Wednesday 9th December, 2015 before they begin the winter recess. A talk was given by Ken Rawson entitled 'My personal association with Christopher Lloyd of Great Dixter'. Ken gave a highly individualized talk on the celebrated gardener Christo Lloyd informed by a friendship of over 21years. He gave insight to life at Great Dixter by structuring the talk round the rituals of a typical day from early rising to retiring in the evening, which encompassed gardening decisions, work in the garden, post opened and replied to, articles written, pre drinks, meals, visits to other gardens and so on, and so on. He spoke of a man with few prejudices, of great vision for a garden which was seriously gardened by Lloyd from when he was a plant obsessed child and which became an international icon. A garden dies with its owner, they say, however Ken reassured us that under Fergus Garrett, who was for the last 13 years of his life, Christos' best friend, energizer and head gardener and now the torchbearer of the Dixter-style, never standing still, experimental, controversial but above all inventive.

The talk was followed by Christmas Drinks and Canapés,was well attended and was much enjoyed by everyone present.

The club does not hold meetings in January and February so the next meeting will be on Wednesday 9th March, 2016 when Pam Tatam will give a talk on 'Focal Points'.

November 2015

The Club met for the November meeting held in the Village Hall, Rippingale to hear Penny Dawson of Twelve Nunns Nursery established in Lincolnshire in 2012, to speak on 'Hellebores and other specialties'. She began with an overview of her business and of the development of the Hellebore species by her family. Her father Hugh Nunn a nurseryman of fine repute began selecting the finest and most unusual colour variations and petal forms of the species many decades ago in the village of Harvington, Worcestershire. Constant reselection has maintained colour, vigor and health of improved plants, which are known as Harvington Hybrids. Her father and mother retired in 2015 and have moved to Lincolnshire to support Penny in the continuation of the development of the species.

Penny gave a most informative and comprehensive talk on cultivation, increase by seed sowing and division as well as pests and diseases which can afflict plants without vigilance and a good hygiene regime. Penny also touched on other specialties - Roscoeas, Trilliums and Erythroniums. She brought plants of excellent quality for sale.The talk was most interesting and was enjoyed by a good attendance.

The next meeting will be held at 7.30 p.m.on Wednesday 9th December 2015 in the Village Hall, Rippingale PE10 0TA to hear Ken Rawson talk on 'My personal association with Christopher Lloyd of Great Dixter' the talk will be followed by Christmas Drinks and Canapés.

October 2015

The club met on Wednesday 14th October 2015 to hear Joe Whitehead talk on the subject 'Nice and Nasty - Plants and Pests'. The meeting was well attended and many who were present had visited Blatherwycke Walled Gardens, Northamptonshire with the Club in July, when Joe had given a walk round tour of the borders and grounds. This was significant because he had brought a wealth of carefully selected material from the garden, now blooming in full autumnal glory as the basis for his talk. He also brought with him the less pleasant side of gardening by way of examples of pest damage and disease which affect many species. His coverage was comprehensive and enjoyed by all.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 11th November 2015 at 7.30p.m. in Rippingale Village Hall, PE10 0TA when Penny Dawson of Twelve Nunns Nursery will speak on the subject 'Hellebores and other specialties'[ Roscoeas, Trilliums, Erythroniums]. There will be plants for sale.S

September 2015

The club met in Rippingale Village Hall on Wednesday 9th September, 2015 for the Annual General Meeting followed by a talk. The meeting was well attended, reports were given and approved; the club is in good heart financial; officers were reelected en bloc. Thanks were given to Chris Bladon who had organised the very successful Spring Plant Fair under difficult circumstances, to Janice Diess and her team for donating and serving refreshments at indoor meetings and to Cliff and Joan Curtis for organiising the raffles. New members were welcomed. The AGM was followed by a talk given by Jim Handley, Head Gardener at Grimsthorpe Castle entitled 'My first Years at Grimsthorpe'. Jim first came to the garden three years ago to work as assistant to the Head Gardener pending his retirement and after one year Jim was appointed to the post of Head Gardener with three full time gardeners, one part time and one trainee working under him.

Through a power point presentation of views of the garden he 'walked' us through the grounds speaking on the problems of gardening twenty five acres on heavy clay, looking at the borders, kitchen garden, topiary squares the walled garden and showing views of Capability Brown's landscape. He told us of plans for future development of the gardens towards more seasonal interest through the introduction of wider plant species and of the implementation of ideas Lady Jane Willoughby has clawed from design plans from an earlier era, some of which were not originally developed. The talk was much enjoyed.

The next to be held is on Wednesday 14th October 2015 in Rippingale Village Hall PE10 0TA when Joe Whitehead will give a talk entitled 'Nice and Nasty'- Plants and Pests. Plants will be for sale.

FORWARD notice. The November meeting will feature a talk on Hellebores and other specialties

June 2015

The next meeting is on Wednesday 8th July, 2015 when we will meet the Head Gardener, Joe Whitehead at Blatherwycke Walled Garden, Blatherwycke, Northamptonshire PE 8 6 YW at 7p.m. You will remember that Joe came to talk to the group about the restoration of the garden last year and many of you expressed an interest in a visit. His nursery Garednwise[ not usually open to the public] will be open for us to purchase plants on that evening. The cost of the visit is £3.50 which includes a talk, tour of the garden and refreshments. Please let either Sharron or Elizabeth know if you intend to visit.

April 2015

The next meeting is to be held on Wednesday 6 th May, 2015 at 6p.m. at Rasell's Nurseries, Little Bytham, NG33 4RA when Clair Rasell will demonstrate the art of 'Hanging Baskets and Container Planting'. The charge for the evening is £2.50 which includes refreshments. The Nursery will be open for you to make purchases if you wish.

March 2015

The Gardening Club resumed meetings for the 2015 year with an illustrated talk held in the Village Hall on 11th March, 2015 at 7.30p.m. when George Stevenson, the County Organiser for the National Gardens Scheme in Cambridgeshire spoke on his long association and involvement with the organisation. The whole county embraces many delightful gardens, from Cambridge University gardens, two National Trust properties, historic gardens in Ely and a fascinating collection of town gardens in Peterborough. As well showing a range of visual material of these he also embraced rural village gardens and allotments, ideal for giving inspiration for back garden planting and design. He implored us all to continue to support this fine organistion which raises a phenomenal sum of money each year for charity.

The clubs next meeting on Wednesday 8th April 2015 is to the Cambridgeshire garden of Carole and Forbes Smith, 6 Robins Wood, Wansford PE8 6JQ at 6 p.m.

December 2014

The club met on Wednesday 10th December 2014 for a most enjoyable evening which took the form of a 'Gardens Question Time' followed by Christmas Drinks and Canapés. The evening was very well attended with everyone making a real effort with probing and interesting questions; contributing to an amazing raffle and supplying delicious homemade delicacies.

We now break for a Winter recess, but will resume meetings in the Spring. The date for the next meeting on the calendar is Wednesday 11th March 2015 in the Village Hall Rippingale PE10 0TA at 7.30p.m. when George Stevens will talk on 'Cambridgeshire National Gardens Scheme'.

If you haven't joined us yet this season this may be a good starting point. New members are always given a warm welcome and can join the club on their first visit.

November 2014

The Club met on Wednesday 12 th November 2014 to hear a talk given by Colin Ward of Swinesmeadow Nursery, Market Deeping. Colin had brought with him an amazing array of plants and as usual spoke with great authority, confident in his own knowledge. Colin considers himself first and foremost a plantsman. His criteria for judging a plant is through foliage,then form and if it flowers it is a bonus. Specimens discussed were good garden favourites, hardy exotics and unusual and desirable plants which you tend only to see in botanic gardens and with which members were unfamiliar. The talk was enjoyed by all present and was well attended with both returning and new members.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 10th December 2014 at 7.30 p.m. in Rippingale Village Hall , PE10 0TA, which takes the form of a' Gardens Question Time' when a panel of experts will be happy to answer questions posed to them. This will be followed by Christmas Drinks and Canapés. We welcome both old and new members on this our social evening.

October 2014

The club met for the first meeting on the new programme on Wednesday 8th October 2014 in the Village Hall to hear Ken Rawson speak on the subject 'The Gravel Garden- Why and How'.

Ken is a Garden Designer from Easton -on-the - Hill and has been in the business of designing gardens for 28 years. He began his talk with reasons why a gravel garden is highly suitable from the point of view that it prevents weeds by acting as a mulch; to prevent evaporation and because it is right on trend. It also solves the problem of what to do with poor stony free draining soil, a cheaper alternative to paving, it looks good because it is clean and tidy ......... Ken went on to extol a multitude of virtues discussing how to achieve a highly desirable, low maintenance garden through a power point presentation of numerous gardens with before and after scenarios. The well attended meeting prompted much lively discussion and was enjoyed by all. Ken ended the meeting with a physical discussion of a large number of plants he had brought along to emphasize alternative groupings and placements in an overall scheme. Many people bought plants to go away with and get started.

The next meeting will be held in Rippingale Village Hall PE 10 0 TA at 7.30p.m. on Wednesday 12th November 2014 When Colin Ward of Swine's Meadow Nursery, Market Deeping will give a talk entitled 'Colin's Plants of the Moment'. There will be plants for sale.

AGM - 10th September 2014

The club met in the Village Hall Rippingale on Wednesday 10 th September 2014 at 7.30p.m. for the AGM. The meeting was very well attended with several new and recent members present. The officers presented their reports which were all duly accepted, with many thanks proffered to those who work tirelessly for the ethos of the club. The present committee was re elected en bloc Chairman Sharron White, Vice Chairman Cliff Curtis, Treasurer Margaret Ayres and Secretary Elizabeth Forman.

The AGM was followed by a talk given by Gail Summerfield of Westshores Nurseries, Gold Meadallists at Harrogate Flower Shows. Gail a botanist and plant physiologist and former lecturer at Bishop Burton College, East Yorkshire spoke on the subject 'Tender Loving Care'. She spoke eloquently on how to get the most from your plants with her main pointers to success being to study the native habitats of your plants; observe more carefully how they perform in their chosen site; analyse micro climates in your garden and learn to interpret information gleaned and above all keep refining, moving and trying.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 8th October, 2014 at 7.30p.m. in the Village Hall Rippingale PE 10 0TA when Ken Rawson will speak on 'The Gravel Garden - Why and How'. He will have plants for sale.

April 2014

The Club met on Wednesday April 9th, 2014 to hear a talk on 'Small scale Vegetable Growing' given by Dave Newman known as 'The Sage Gardener'. He had many useful tips and suggestions for success in growing a wide variety of crops and for dealing with pests and diseases, the meeting was well attended.

This was our last club indoor meeting until the autumn.

We now begin a series of Garden Visits. The first is to Jersey Cottage Nursery, Roman Bank, Moulton Seas End, PE12 6LG at 7 p.m. on Wednesday 14 th May, 2014 , this is not as advertised in the programme. The nursery is run by Mr. Steve Foster with website address www.jerseycottagenursery.co.uk. He sells a wide range of very unusual plants. Any new members would be welcome to come along.

March 2014

Rippingale and District Gardening Club resumed meetings this Spring with a talk on Propagation given by Steve Hickman, known to many as the 'Agapanthus Man'. He discussed the main areas of propagation- stem cuttings, root cuttings, division, tissue culture and seed sowing. He demonstrated with a range of material, with tips given for everyone to take away to try for themselves. The meeting was well supported and the Chairman was able to welcome several new members to the club.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 9th April 2014 at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall, Rippingale PE10 0TA when Dave Newman will talk on the subject 'Small scale Vegetable Growing'.

February 2014

Meetings resume for the Spring season at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall, Rippingale PE10 0TA, on Wednesday 12 th March, 2014 with a talk by Steve Hickman on the subject of 'Propagation'.

Steve is known to many as the 'Agapanthus Man' and exhibits at all the major shows in the country. He is however also a fine plantsman and knowledgeable in many horticultural fields. This talk and demonstration will be followed in August with a reprise of salient points and hands on practical session at a time when material is ripe for propagation.

New members are always given a warm welcome.

December 2013

The club met in the Village Hall on Wednesday 11th December 2013 for a Christmas Celebration. The committee were greatly cheered by the effort made by club members who provided delicious canapés and a wonderful array of raffle prizes.

The evening began with a talk by one of our members Jackie Searl on a subject dear to her heart and entitled 'A Personal View of Japanese Landscapes'. Jackie and her husband Chris had embarked on an extensive tour of Japan tailor made to their requirements. With Chris on the mouse they evidenced exciting images through power point presentation, of a depth of real interest in their subject. Jackie gave a most enthralling talk with real passion for Japanese garden history and design. Photographs followed of atmospheric and dramatic gardens with cloud pruned trees and shrubs, lakes, waterfalls, brooks, bridges, mossy banks, bamboo fencing, chrysanthemum bonsai...........never-ending images to excite and inspire. The overwhelming legacy of attention to detail in every aspect of the Japanese people, to garden to an exceptional high standard, was the overriding impression left on us all. The club is to visit Jackie's own Japanese inspired garden in July 2014.

The raffle was drawn by Rippingale Village Rose Queen Neave Warcup who was beautifully attired in her pretty long dress and tiara.

We now begin our winter recess, the club does not meet in January and February, the first meeting of the new year will be on Wednesday 12th March 2014, when Steve Hickman of Doncaster will talk on 'Propagation'.

New members are always given a warm welcome.

November 2013

The club was delighted to welcome Linda Smith on 13 th November 2013 co proprietor with her husband Phil, of Waterside Nursery, Sharnford, Leicestershire a family run business which specializes in pond plants and plants for moist gardens. They were exhibitors and Gold Medal winners in 2013 at Chelsea, NEC Gardeners World and Tatton. Linda gave a very measured and informative talk on how after determining aims for a pond, the procedure for selecting a suitable site. She went on to describe the ground work necessary and type of liner in preparation for planting. Her power point presentation showed an amazing range of plants differing in colour, form and texture to add to and enhance a garden, attracting wild life of great diversity. She was keen also to point out the correct oxygenating plants to employ and warned against thugs and banned species. The talk was well attended.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 11th December 2013 in the Village Hall Rippingale when Jackie Searl will give ' A Personal View of Japanese Landscapes' The talk will be followed by Christmas Drinks and Canapés.

New members are always given a warm welcome.

October 2013

The club met for the first time in the 2013/14 season of lectures, on Wednesday 9 th October, 2013, welcoming Joe Whitehead of Garden Wise, known to many from his presence at Hardy Plant Fairs in Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and beyond and also for his regular slot on Radio Norfolk and on occasions Radio Cambridge.

Joe's subject for his talk was 'Over the Garden Wall' a restoration project he his heading up at Blatherwycke, Northamptonshire for the George Family. He gave a most interesting talk on the extensive nature of the vast work involved in bringing a lost garden of 4 acres back to production. He discussed plans for the future and also that which had already been achieved. He showed through power point presentation previous projects in which he had been involved as Head Gardener and also in the context of well known gardens such as those at West Dean, Audley End, Saul, Raveningham Hall and others. Joe is a most engaging fellow with enormous enthusiasm for his subject and for historical exemplars, waxing lyrical on melon pits, vine houses, apple stores etc. He brought with him hardy plants of interesting and varied form all of which were for sale.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 13 th November, 2013 at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall, Rippingale when Linda Smith of Shamford, Leicestershire will speak on the subject 'Creating and Planting a Pond'. Many of you will know Linda who has featured on BBC TV programmes during Chelsea Week.

New members are always given a warm welcome.

September 2013

The club met in the Village Hall on Wednesday 11th September 2013 for the final meeting of the current programme and began with the AGM.

The Chairman Sharron White was able to report a highly successful year with officials and members working hard for the general ethos of the club which had enjoyed a wide range of knowledgeable speakers and excellent garden visits. The treasurer Margaret Ayres gave her report with comment, affirming that the club is also in good heart financially. The Secretary Elizabeth Forman congratulated Chris Bladon and all Garden Openers on another very successful Open Gardens Weekend. Thanks went also to Janice Diess and her willing team who provide refreshments for every meeting and work hard for Open Gardens. Thanks went also to Joan Curtis ably assisted by Cliff Curtis who run the raffle with consummate skill.

The meeting was followed by a talk on 'Late Summer Perennials' given by Gerald Sinclair from The Nursery Further- Afield, Mixbury ,Oxfordshire, which developed into an amusing and entertaining talk with excellent advice given to achieve the stunning borders evidenced in his slide presentation. The talk was enjoyed by a good attendance of old and new members.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 9 th October 2013 at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall when the new season of talks begins with Joe Whitehead speaking on 'Over the Garden Wall' - with reference to his current restoration project at Blatherwycke Walled Garden.

New members are always given a warm welcome.

October 2012

The Club met in the Village Hall, on Wednesday 10th October 2012 for a talk on the subject 'Growing Giant and Perfect Vegetables for Showing' given by Clive Bevan of Wellingborough.

Clive is aptly named the Guru of the giant vegetable scene. He has virtually grown every plant imaginable with great success and unselfishly given his time and knowledge to thousands of growers. These include the Prince of Wales through visits to Highgrove; journeys to advise the Chinese Government in China; the King of Malaysia in extensive visits to the country; closer to home Jimmy White and many, many, many other keen enthusiasts. He reached a wider audience through an appearance on the Alan Titchmarsh Show on the 1st October.

His talk was inspirational, informative and generous in advice for all vegetable growers and gardeners in general, it was certainly one of the most enjoyable talks the club has had in recent times.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 14 th November, 2012 at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall when Jo Bennison will talk on the subject ' Progression in Peonies'. Please note Jo will be bringing Peonies for sale. These can be viewed on her web site www.bennisonpeonies.co.uk prior to the talk.

New members are always assured of a warm welcome.

September 2012

The club met in the Village Hall, on Wednesday 12th September 2012 for the AGM. The Chairman Sharron White, the Secretary Elizabeth Forman gave their reports and the Chairman read the Treasurer Margaret Ayres report in her absence. They all thanked the members for their dedication to the club particularly Janice Deiss and her team who provide and serve refreshment. Cliff and Joan Curtis who run the raffle for each meeting and Chris Bladon who organises the Open Gardens weekend. The serving officers together with the Vice Chairman Cliff Curtis were re elected en bloc. The Chairman welcomed a host of new members.

The AGM was followed by a talk on 'Perennials for Late Summer Colour' given by Ben Potterton of Blacksmiths Cottage Nursery, Dickleburgh, Norfolk. Ben brought with him an enormous range of plants many of which were new to members. Ben is a highly engaging young man who is great fun and enormously amusing. He spoke with much authority on a wide range of hardy perennials. The talk was delivered in an entertaining way and was greatly enjoyed by a good attendance.

The next meeting is in the Village Hall on Wednesday 10 th October, 2012 at 7.30p.m. when Clive Bevan will talk on the subject 'Growing Giant and Perfect Vegetables for Showing'. Please note that this follows an Extraordinary General Meeting at 7.15 p.m. for all members when the club subscription will be set for the following year. New members are assured of a warm welcome.

Forward Information - April 2012

Rippingale Open Gardens Saturday 28 th April 2-6 p.m. and Sunday 29th April 11a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Please give your support to the many hard working people who give so generously of their time to make this a worthwhile event and support the Village Clubs and Charities which benefit from the proceeds.

Bennison Peonies, The Grange, East Firsby, Market Rasen LN8 2 DB. Jo Bennison our speaker on Wednesday 14th November 2012 will bring plants for sale which will not be in flower. She suggests members visit the peony fields which will be in flower and open to visitors on the weekends 26 /27 th May; 2 /3 rd June; 9 / 10 th June 10a.m. - 4p.m. when plants can be viewed in bloom and pre ordered if so wished to be delivered to the meeting. Surely another opportunity not to be missed.

April 2012

The club met in the Village Hall on Wednesday 11th April 2012 to hear a talk on 'Alpines and Interesting Smaller Perennials' given by Mike Ireland and Tony Garthwaite two well known alpine growers who had journeyed from North Lincolnshire. This was the last meeting in the Village Hall until the Autumn.

The subject of the talk focused on exceptional and largely unusual specimens grown by the speakers in tandem, as committed enthusiasts who share their plants and trial them in differing soil conditions in their own gardens. The audience was entertained with stunning photographs delivered through a sophisticated power point presentation enjoying plants such as Alium kurtzianum, Arisaema griffithii, Erinacea anthylis, Kelseya uniflora, Paeonia cambersdesii, Trillium kurabayashi and many, many more truly beautiful specimens. Some photographs showed the plant growing in their own gardens and then shown grown in its native habitat. The speakers had brought many plants for sale and these were eagerly snapped up by club members.

The talk was well attended and was greatly enjoyed by established members of the club as well as by several new members attending for the first time.

We now begin a programme of visits to local carefully selected gardens, beginning with a visit to the home of Mr and Mrs Winfrey, Castor House, Castor, Peterborough PE 5 7 AX on Wednesday 9th May 2012 at 7 p.m.

March 2012

The club met in the Village Hall on Wednesday 14 th March 2012 for the first meeting of the year to hear a talk on 'Victorian Violas' given by Robert Chapman a well known speaker from Lincoln. Mr Chapman is one of the foremost growers of these species in the country and exhibits at Chelsea and Harrogate Flower Shows.

The subject of the talk focused on viola plants to give beauty and fragrance in the garden and on the patio. These were extremely popular plants during the 19 th century, highly scented, this elite family produce continuity of bloom throughout the summer, April - September. He extolled their virtues of sheer staying power, vast array of colour and abundance of flowers as truly amazing, some varieties can be supporting as many as fifty or more stems at any one time. Their natural growth habit is hardy perennial so after flowering fades in autumn, they rest in the winter months ready to repeat their stunning display year after year. He had brought with him a good number of violas which he had bred himself and which are new to the market this year, these were later sold to members of the audience.The talk was well attended and was greatly enjoyed by established members of the club as well as many new members attending for the first time.

The next meeting will be held in Rippingale Village Hall on Wednesday 11 th April 2012 at 7.30 p.m. when Mike Ireland will give a talk on 'Alpines and Interesting Perennials'. New members are always welcome. The April meeting will be the last meeting in the Village Hall until the Autumn, The May meeting will be the start of our garden visits when we will visit Castor House near Peterborough.

March 2012

The club met in the Village Hall on Wednesday 14 th March 2012 for the first meeting of the year to hear a talk on 'Victorian Violas' given by Robert Chapman a well known speaker from Lincoln. Mr Chapman is one of the foremost growers of these species in the country and exhibits at Chelsea and Harrogate Flower Shows.

The subject of the talk focused on viola plants to give beauty and fragrance in the garden and on the patio. These were extremely popular plants during the 19 th century, highly scented, this elite family produce continuity of bloom throughout the summer, April - September. He extolled their virtues of sheer staying power, vast array of colour and abundance of flowers as truly amazing, some varieties can be supporting as many as fifty or more stems at any one time. Their natural growth habit is hardy perennial so after flowering fades in autumn, they rest in the winter months ready to repeat their stunning display year after year. He had brought with him a good number of violas which he had bred himself and which are new to the market this year, these were later sold to members of the audience.The talk was well attended and was greatly enjoyed by established members of the club as well as many new members attending for the first time.

The next meeting will be held in Rippingale Village Hall on Wednesday 11 th April 2012 at 7.30 p.m. when Mike Ireland will give a talk on 'Alpines and Interesting Perennials'. New members are always welcome. The April meeting will be the last meeting in the Village Hall until the Autumn, The May meeting will be the start of our garden visits when we will visit Castor House near Peterborough.

December 2011

The club met for a talk on 'Christmas Crackers' given by Janette Merillion a well known speaker and garden historian. The subject of the talk focussed on plants for giving and symbolism of Christmas plants.

Janette spoke on the origins of symbolism of the Christmas tree, holly, ivy and mistletoe explaining pagan connections also touching on wassailing and other traditions. Her high quality slides of garden plants which feature at this time of year and plants for giving were discussed in detail with helpful cultural instructions. The talk was well attended and was greatly enjoyed by members of the club.

A Christmas celebration of drinks and canapes followed the meeting. The club is now in recess for two months the next meeting being held on the 14th March in the Village Hall at 7.30pm when Robert Chapman will give a talk on 'Victorian Violas'. Mr Chapman is one ofthe foremost growers of these species in the country and exhibits at Chelsea and Harrogate Flower Shows.

November 2011

The club met for a talk on 'An Introduction to the World of Ornamental Grasses' given by Des Martin of Mozart House Nursery, Wigston, Leicester. Des gave a hands on talk and began by giving a historical overview of the growing of grasses as ornamental plants.

In 1782 a Devon Nursery listed a few ornamental grasses and almost a century later an eminent gardener stated as in 1867 that 'Public attention has turned to grasses for grace and elegance over gaudy colouring'. Gertrude Jekyll 1870-1880 was the first person to put perennials with grasses to emphasise texture. However, by Edwardian times they were no longer a trend. It was in the 1950's that the Germans and Dutch embraced the genus as something different to utilise as a means to enhance a garden. In the 1960-1970's new grasses appeared in the USA through hydridisation and this fuelled the mania of the 1990's and 2000's and the era of Piet Oudolf.

Des brought with him an enormous range of potted grasses, many specimens new to members and all of which were for sale. He spoke with much knowledge and enthusiasm for the species. It was greatly enjoyed by a good attendance with several new members present.

October 2011

The club met for a talk on 'Ferns' given by Colin Ward of Swines Meadow Nursery, Market Deeping. Colin very kindly stepped in at 48 hours notice as our advertised speaker Neil Timm was unable to attend.

Colin gave a hands on talk and began by giving a resume of the fern life cycle showing us how to propagate from spores and how to sterlise compost. He passed round seed trays at one, two and three year stages of development which astonished us all. He brought with him an enormous ramge of potted ferns of which many specimens were new to members and all of which were for sale. Colin spoke with much authority showing good knowledge of the habitat where individual species are found in the wild and gave tips for cultivation in our own gardens. This was delivered in an entertaining way with him taking questions from the floor as the talk progressed.

It was greatly enjoyed by a good attendance. New members are assured of a warm welcome.

March 2011

The club resumed meetings for a talk by Steven Hickman on the subject 'Agapanthus and Tulbaghia', the meeting was well supported. Steven Hickman is a grower and experienced horticulturist having over 30 years as a nurseryman specialising in the related genus Agapanthus and Tulbaghia. He exhibits at all the major shows in the country, Scotland and last year exhibited in Paris for the first time. He holds the National Collection for Agapanthus.

Steven gave a hands on talk discussing and demonstrationg vegetative methods of propagation, fail safe strategies for taking Agapanthus through even the hardest winter, conditions for growing, recommending types of compost and plant food. He told us that they are trouble free from slugs, snails and other pests and diseases. In their native habitat of South Africa medicinal attributes are afforded them by the Zulu tribe and research is being done in support of folklore and practice.

He took questions throughout the talk. This format was greatly enjoyed by all who attended the meeting.

December 2010

The club met for a talk on 'Giverny' given by Simon Garbutt a well known contributor to the RHS magazine publication 'The Garden'. Simon has translated a guide book for the garden at Giverny which he had with him on the night. With the aid of a Powerpoint presemntation he began by painting a picture of Claude Monet the impressionist artist and progressed to Monet the gardener. Simon told of the exhibition of 1874 as a large collection of 'impressions' - Monet's 'impression' 'Sunrise' for example was seen as an anti-academic display, hostile to and defiant of the official art of the Salon.

The impressionists were fundamentally interested in accurately portraying their perception of the natural world as they saw it, with absolute fidelity painting directly from the object and if necessary out of doors a concept at odds with the accepted vision of what art should be. His ideas led to the analysis of local colour, that is the colour of the object in nature, bathed in ever changing light and he developed his garden at Giverny to serve his ends. He was a hands on gardener and there are many references to his lack of fulfilling contracts to dealers who sold his work because he was 'too busy with the garden'. Together with a team of gardeners he raised thousands of plants for flower beds. Paint box beds were themed with a block of single colour.

When he became successful he was able to purchase land to develop the water garden. He took advantage of new species of waterlily and shrubs now appearing from all over the world. Monet spent half his life of forty three years painting the garden and the pond the variations of light and colour a constant source of inspiration to him.

The talk was greatly enjoyed by members of the club who had braved the inclement winter conditions to be there. A Christmas celebration of drinks and canapes followed and a presentation was made to Cliff and Joan Curtis retiring members of the committee. The secretary thanked them for their exceptional service which they had given over many years. After this meeting the club was in recess for a couple of months.

November 2010

The club met for a talk on 'Victorian Gardens and their plants; Sixty years of development'. This was delivered in erudite fashion by Dr John Page of Solihull, a former university lecturer, secretary of the Alpine Society (Birmingham Group), author of numerous articles on plants and gardening and a leader of garden tours to the mountains of Europe. John painted the garden picture of the sixty four years of Victoria's reign 1837-1901, how the large vision of Capability Brown's big landscape views tamed with a feature such as the Temple of Flora at Stourhead with trees but very few plants, gave way to the landscaped garden of pillar roses and beds developed by Humphrey Repton.

This was in the wake of wonderful exotic specimens coming into the country 'from outside' i.e. all corners of the Empire, when a style was needed to use them to best advantage. This change of direction was accompanied by an explosion of magazines and books devoted to gardening to satisfy the thirst for knowledge. Ths invention of the Wardian Case - the hand carried mini greenhouse luggage used to transport plants was eventually developed into larger scale, as the Orangery and conservatory, This is when the lady of the house wrests control from the head gardener and takes on a new domian. John explained how products came to the fore all with aggressive product advertising and claims of exemplary function - Edward Budding's Patent Lawnmower, Merryweather's Garden Hose, Dawkin's Patent Watertight Plunger Syringe....

He then went on to show a wide range of images of paintings of ladies in their gardens tending plants, of the nouveau riche on their lawns admiring their circular beds with ribbon planting bordering pin cushon beds, lily ponds, rockeries covering the development of the garden and the introduction of the well known cult specimens such as magnolia, pampas grass, monkey puzzle, rhododendrons, ferns, violas, etc. The talk was greatly enjoyed by a well attended membership of the club.

October 2010

The AGM was reconvened from the September meeting because the secretary was on holiday. The out going Chairman Cliff Curtis and the Treasurer Joan Curtis gave their final reports and then Cliff thanked everyone present for their support over the years reflecting on the happy times he and Joan had enjoyed with the club. He said that they both felt it time to bow out, the club was in good heart with an encouraging membership and that they had both not had good health recently. He said that they would remain as members and be supportive at all times but now will be driving the club from the back seat.

The Secretary Elizabeth Forman thanked Cliff and Joan for their exceptional and sterling work over the years they had served the club and dedication and good humour, those present gave their heartfelt and rousing applause grateful for their generosity of time and energy. The newly elected officers are Chairman Sharron White and Treasurer Margaret Ayres. The present Secretary Elizabeth Forman was re elected to serve with them. The AGM was followed by a talk on pruning by Geoff Hodge. This was delivered in an entertaining way and was greatly enjoyed. Geoff demystified a subject which many gardeners find daunting. He emphasised that there must be a reason to prune - to keep a plant to the required size; to remove dead, diseased, dying or damaged growth and to arrest reversion i.e. on a variegated plant.

He generously gave a number of very fine raffle prizes. The meeting was well attended.

September 2010

The club met on the 8th Spetember at 7.30pm in the Village Hall to hear Don Witton speak on 'Hardy Planter's Winter Survival Kit'. Don a school teacher by profession has been a gardener for over 35 years and an avid 'Hardy Planter'. He holds the National Collection of hardy Euphorbia which has twice been featured on BBC television and in numerous gardening magazines.

Don runs a part time nursery specialising in hardy perennials and a large range of Euphorbias some of which he brought with him on the night for people to purchase. He lectures all over the country and is an amusing speaker, his talk at Rippingale was delivered in an enthusiatic and entertaining manner and was greatly enjoyed by all present. His slide presentation led us through the garden season with useful projects, activities and strategies to help get through the dark nights and cold days between October and the end of March. His audience was provided with a very comprehensive and useful slide list.

June 2008

No Report

May 2008

No Report

Wednesday 9th April 2008

Members who attended this months meeting at Rippingale and District Gardening Club found the illustrated talk on 'Orchids for Everyone' by Richard Yates of Leicester, most enjoyable. Richard has grown orchids for more than fifty years, a passion he shared with his father from an early age. His advice showed not only a common sense approach, but also a wealth of knowledge gleaned from first hand experience. He told his audience that the easiest orchid for culture was the Phalaenopsis which is bred to go on the window sill or in a well lit room. Tough and easily available it is indeed an orchid for everyone. He said that the greatest cause of loss was through over watering, reminding those present that not only did the thick leaves hold a reservoir of water but the bark compost did as well. He suggested a weekly cap of rain water with proprietary fertilizer for three weeks and in the fourth week plain water. He suggested that the RHS advice for the growing of most plants was followed, weakly weekly - one teaspoon in four gallons. Aerial roots with their green tips show that an orchid is growing well, taking up carbon dioxide along with the leaves.

Richard showed slides of his orchid hunting experiences in Brazil south of Rio de Janeiro he touched on species which he grows in his orchid houses at home such as Cattelyas, Dendrobiums, Odontoglossums, Phaphiopedilum, Pleione and Vandas.

The club continues their monthly meetings on 14th May 2008 with 'A Home for Butterflies' a visit to the garden of Phil Bowler, Windmill Lodge, Amber Hill, Boston, 6 pm from the village green. Field visits continue throughout the summer. The next indoor meeting is in the village hall on 12th September which begins the new season with a short AGM at 7.30 pm followed by a talk entitled 'Colour, Shape and Texture in Herbaceous Plants'. New members will be given a warm welcome.

Wednesday 12 March 2008

Members accustomed to the usual high standard of speakers at the monthly club lectures at Rippingale and District Gardening Club were not disappointed with Michael Myers talk on Woodland Ranunculaceae. Michael journeyed from Smelthouses near Harrogate to share his wealth of knowledge with all present.

His immense enthusiasm for his subject was illustrated with high quality slides. Ranunculaceae, the Buttercup family includes plants such as Delphiniums but on this occasion he focused on woodland species - Anemones, Hepaticas, Aconites, Hellebores and Celandines with particular emphasis on hybrids and cultivars. His growing tips showed a pertinence to the amateur gardener with suggestions for interesting crosses within the species. Michael said that although much work had been done in the last twenty to thirty years there was more scope for a lot of new plants through hybridization with infinite scope for flower variation.

New members were given a particular warm welcome and took advantage of the opportunity to purchase specialist plants which Michael had brought with him on the evening.

Wednesday 13th February 2008

It was encouraging to see so many attend the talk given by Cliff Curtis on Snowdrops. Cliff gave a good grounding on how to recognise the different types of snowdrops.

Next month we welcome Michael Myers who will be speaking on "Woodland Ranunculaceae". This we hope will help us discover those little gems of spring which can easily brighten up the garden

The open Gardens next year will be on Saturday 3rd May and Sunday 4th May. Anyone who wishes to open their garden or assist with the teas etc please contact Chris Bladon.

All indoor meetings are on the second Wednesday of the month at Rippingale Village Hall, at 7.30pm

Wednesday 12th December 2007

For the members who braved a cold evening they were rewarded with a interesting and enlightening talk by Geoff Stebbings on Myddelton House, the home of E A Bowles. Geoff who as editor of Garden Answers brought free issues of this magazine along with a sister publication Garden News. He also generously gave an assortment of seeds to keep us busy next year. Many thanks goes to everyone who brought contributions for the buffet and helped with the organisation.

It is hoped that more members will come to hear Cliff Curtis give a talk on Snowdrops and Hellebores on Wednesday February 13th at 7.30 pm at Rippingale Village Hall.

The open Gardens next year will be on Saturday 3rd May and Sunday 4th May. Anyone who wishes to open their garden please contact Chris Bladon

Wednesday 14th November 2007

It was most encouraging to see more members at the November meeting. They were rewarded by Stephanie Lee telling us how to pull a garden together and make the most of shrubs, and hard landscaping.

Next month we have Geoff Stebbings telling us about A.E.Bowles' garden at Myddelton House. Accompanying this will be our Christmas Buffet and it would be appreciated if members could bring contributions - sweet or savoury.

The open Gardens next year will be on the first weekend in May the Bank Holiday and will be open for two days, Saturday and Sunday. Anyone who wishes to open their garden please contact Chris Bladon.

October 2007

No report received this month (no secretary)

September 2007

No report this month (no secretary)

Garden Visit Wed 8 August 2007

This month the weather was very kind to us (just for a change), and on Wednesday 8th August some twenty five members enjoyed a visit to the very pleasant gardens of Kirkdale House at Boothby Pagnell.

Garden Visit Wed 11 July 2007

On Wednesday 11 July the club visited 'Pennygate Plants and Gardens'. Sixteen members enjoyed a fine evening viewing the beautiful gardens, followed by tea and a plant sale.

Open Gardens 24 June 2007

Rippingale opened its gardens to the public this year on Sunday 24 June. The event was well attended, and although only being one day some £180 profit was made which was split between the Village Hall, LIVES and the club.

The RDGC would like to extend its thanks to all those who opened their gardens on the day as well as those who attended. In particular a special thanks goes to Chris Bladon who not only did the lion's share of the organising as usual, but was left to run the whole event single handed on the day due to unforeseen circumstances.

Garden Visit Wed 13 June 2007

Ten brave souls fought their way through torrential rain to Holmdale House in Martin, and were rewarded for their efforts with a very enjoyable evening.  After a tour of the gardens, tea and biscuits were provided and the evening was rounded off with a visit to the garden shop.

Wednesday 9 May 2007

Unfortunately our first garden visit of the year, which should have been to ‘The Moat’ at Newton, was cancelled at the very last moment due to bad weather. The committee offers its apologies to the members, especially to any that went straight to ‘The Moat’ as there was insufficient time to let everyone know.

Wednesday 11 April 2007

On Wednesday 11 April 2007 Phil Bowler gave an excellent talk on "The Home for Butterflies".

Phil's presentation included shots from his original 'award winning' Butterfly and Wildlife garden which was his home for 12 years in Derbyshire, as well as the history of his new venture when he moved home to the Lincolnshire Fens in 1997. He started with what was little more than a very large lawn, and within three years had created a wonderful wildlife garden which has now matured into the magnificent "Home for Butterflies". The club will be visiting Phil in May 2008.

Wednesday 14 March 2007

This month 34 members enjoyed a talk on “Astrantias in the Garden” by Bob Taylor. Bob has some seventy two varieties of Astrantias in his collection at Loughborough, and he showed us slides of most of them. The talk was followed by a questions session, and a plant sale.

We can still use a few more volunteers to open their gardens on Sunday 24th June for the Rippingale Open Gardens, and helpers are always welcome.

The Secretary asked for suggestions for talks and visits for the 2007/08 season. Ideas and contacts are needed soon so that the bookings can be made, and next year’s programme printed. Ideas for this and also the Open Garden volunteers should be passed to John Warman

Wednesday 14 February 2007

Wednesday 14th February saw our first meeting of 2007. Harry Leach gave a very interesting talk on 'Growing Veg' which included a number of very useful tips.

More volunteers to open their gardens on Sunday 24th June are needed, as are helpers for the event. Non Gardening Club residents are welcome to open their gardens as well as members, and those who are willing should contact the club secretary.

Wednesday 13 December 2006

It was decided to have 'Rippingale Open Gardens' as a one day event for 2007 on Sunday 24 June, 11am to 5pm. Anyone in Rippingale willing to open their garden, or to help with the organising is asked to contact the club secretary, John Warman .

Wednesday 8 November 2006

This month 27 members were entertained to a very interesting and amusing talk by Paul Gray on the Gardens of Gunby Hall. Paul, who has worked at Gunby hall all of his life, has risen to the rank of 'Head Gardener'.

Gunby Hall was built on the site of a medieval house in about 1700. It is reputed to have a ghost, and Paul tells us that 'the story he made up' is the correct one.

The next meeting is at 7.30pm on Wednesday 13 December, and is a talk by Julian Browse on Seagate Nurseries. This will be our Christmas meeting so members are invited to bring along a little something for the buffet. Last year we made the mistake of requesting "Not too many mince pies" and subsequently had a mince pie free Christmas Party. We won't make that request this year.

Wednesday 11 October 2006

Wednesday 11 October saw the start of a new season with a talk by Stuart Dixon on "Dreaming Spires". Far from the streets of Oxford these Dreaming Spires were Delphiniums, Hollyhocks, Foxgolves and many more of our taller flowers. Stuarts talk was illustrated with wonderful slides taken around his own garden at Hebb's Farmhouse which has been featured on BBC TV.

It was decided to hold the next Rippingale Open Gardens on the weekend of 23rd and 24th June 2007. Members and residents who would like to open their gardens are asked to give their names and addresses etc to the club secretary John Warman as soon as possible.

Click here for the DRAFT Minutes of the AGM 2006

AGM and Talk - Wednesday 13 September 2006

31 members attended the AGM which was held at the Rippingale Village Hall. The pleadings from the committee were totaly ignored and they were unanimously voted back in on block for another year.

Volunteers were taken for the tea roster (see programme)

After the meeting the members were entertained to a talk on "Delightful Daisies" by Dr Andrew Ward.

Garden Visit Wed 9 August 2006

Unfortunately due to ill health the planned garden visit for August had to be changed at the last moment to Cliff and Joan Curtis at Haconby. A big thank you to Cliff and Joan for standing in at the last moment.

Garden Visit Wed 12 July 2006

This month (July) 31 members met on a visit to the well established gardens of Gill and Adrian Richardson, at Manor Farm, Keisby.



Next month we are visiting Magnolia Cottage at Glinton, leaving Rippingale Village Green at 6.30pm.

Garden Visit Wed 7 June 2006

Wednesday 7 June took us to the wonderful garden of Ivan and Sadie Hall at Haconby. Although a comparatively young garden it is lush with something different around every corner and looks as if it has been there for ever. Next month takes us to Manor Farm at Keisby.

Garden Visit Wed 10 May 2006

On Wednesday 10 May we visited the garden of Roy Beddington in Rippingale. Roy's garden is a long time favourite with the club, and as always it was a treat to see.

Open Gardens - Sat 22 & Sun 23 April 2006

On Saturday we could not have wished for better weather, but Sunday turned into a very disappointing miserable wet day which kept the crowds at away.

Nevertheless over £500 was taken which has been shared with village charities

Click here to view photos

Wednesday 12 April 2006

Ian Warden entertained 28 members with an interesting talk on “Variegated Plants for the Garden” including a hands on experience with the many samples he brought.
We will be visiting Ian at Holmdale House in June 2007.

Wednesday 8 March 2006

This month we had a slight variation from the programme, and instead of giving their talk on succulents Neville and Shirley Bell gave a presentation on 'Mediterranean Style Gardening in the UK". The presentation took the form of a competition with prizes for the winners, and was thoroughly enjoyed by the 32 members present.

Volunteers were found to 'man' a plant stall at the proposed Rippingale Village Feast this year, and late entries for the Rippingale Open Gardens were taken.

Wednesday 14 December 2005

The Christmas meeting of the Rippingale and District Gardening club was enjoyed by 32 members who learnt a little more about "Lilies, Poppies, Daisies and Peas", a talk and slide show by Hazel Kay.

Members provided a buffet which was enjoyed by all after the talk. There was a remarkable absence of mince pies. (See below - 9th November)

We now go into our winter break, and the next meeting is on Wednesday 8th March 2006 at Rippingale Village Hall when there will be a talk by Neville and Shirley Bell on "Succulents in the Garden".

(Click on the images for a larger picture)

Wednesday 9 November 2005

The second of this season's meetings was held on Wednesday 9th November 2005 at Rippingale Village Hall.

Members were told about the availability of allotments in Rippingale, and asked to contact the Gardening Club secretary, John Warman, if they were interested in getting onto the waiting list. The meeting was asked for ideas for next year's talks, and it was suggested that growing vegetables could be included.

Chairman Cliff Curtis introduced Harold Leach who gave an interesting talk and slide show on "The Mixed Boarder" which was enjoyed by the 38 members there.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 14th December 2005 which will be a talk by Hazel Kaye: "Lilies, Poppies and Peas". This will be our Christmas meeting so members are invited to bring along some nibbles (not too many minced pies please) and enjoy a glass of wine or cup of tea after the talk.

Wednesday 12 October 2005

On Wednesday 12 October 2005 at Rippingale Village Hall 32 members enjoyed a talk and slide show by Shirley Palmer on "Gardening in the Shade".