One of the treats of the year is visiting the Ball Colegrave open days in July, something I have missed for the past three years. So one of the first things I have done is to book my visit to see all the new plants we should be seeing in garden centres and catalogues next year.

The company keep their showgrounds immaculately and it is a chance to see new and established bedding and perennial plants in their prime. In a way it is even better if the weather has been a bit ropey because it gives a chance to assess how plants do in challenging conditions.

The great news is that, although the trial grounds are open to the press and to growers, so they can decide what they will grow next year, there is an open evening for the public with refreshments and crafts and a chance to meet Peter Seabrook. The date for your diary is 20th July – next week. I won’t give directions because I have never been without getting lost – if you have sat nav you will do better than me! If you get a chance it is well worth a visit.

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