Swindon garden centre's advice on summer growing

Dobbies’ garden centre in Hyde Road is planning free gardening workshops next month.

With summer in full swing, Dobbies is sharing its expertise to help gardens thrive this season. 

Its gardening experts in Swindon are hosting two free sessions, for both children and adults, to help them learn about what plants do well during sunny spells and how to protect gardens in the warmer months.

The last two summers in the UK have been drier than the historical average, and Dobbies’ horticultural experts will lend a hand to offer free advice to customers in Swindon about how to maximise their outdoor space and ensure their gardens are prepared for whatever the weather may bring.

Dobbies’ interactive Grow How session takes place on Saturday 5 August at 10.30am, and customers will be invited along to further their gardening expertise. 

They will receive advice on plants which will thrive in sunny spots, insider tips for getting the garden to grow and the different types of drought-friendly plants to keep outdoor spaces vibrant.

The Little Seedlings Club takes place on Sunday 6 August and is ideally suited for children aged 4-10, offering a jam-packed interactive workshop with educational content and craft activities. 

Children will learn about summer as a season, what the warm weather means for the environment, how plants adapt to dry weather, specific plants to grow and how we can be safe in the sun.

Dobbies’ Horticultural Director Marcus Eyles said: “The hottest summer months can have an impact on the overall health of your plants and the success of your garden. Choosing the correct plants for the right position and soil in your garden is essential.

“Many plants have adapted and evolved to cope with hot and dry weather conditions, and gardeners in Swindon can take advantage of this by potting up plants such as Lavender and Rosemary or by growing palms or outdoor succulents. 

"Certain plants like Salvia, Lemon trees and Dahlias all burst with vibrant colours and thrive in a sunny spot, a great choice for south facing gardens or balconies that get sunlight all day. 

"Our in-store experts are looking forward to speaking with customers and our Little Seedlings Club members to make sure everyone is putting their best foot forward this summer.”

More information can be found at events.dobbies.com