Sharing resources and knowledge comes naturally in the gardening community. Advice is given freely - often even when it is not asked for - and being able to dip into this pool of knowledge is an important part of becoming an experienced gardener. When starting out, take note of what is growing successfully in gardens nearby, see what weeds are present and always ask questions. Most gardeners love to be quizzed about their patch and a little flattery goes a long way. Information is readily available in books, magazines and online, but the internet has its limitations when it comes to seeking advice about problems that are unique to your area. Joining a local gardening club can provide this invaluable advice and support for novice gardeners.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
Gardening clubs cover everything from cultivating vegetables to growing and caring for delicate and rare plants. They all encourage members to share tips and ideas; it's an opportunity to make friends and learn something new. Allotment associations are often linked to local gardening clubs, providing help and advice to members.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
Clubs often host speaker events and tours of gardens and nurseries. By holding plant sales and seed swaps, they encourage gardeners on a shoestring budget to try new-varieties at very little risk. Clubs that offer bulk-buying benefits for garden supplies such as seeds and gardening equipment can pass on substantial discounts. Members can help each other with labour-intensive garden projects, sharing large pieces of garden equipment such as rotavators and swapping surplus vegetables.
Gardening clubs are a great way to meet local people who are dealing with the same soil, pests and growing climate as you. And more importantly, a great way to share your gardening triumphs!
For existing gardening clubs in the UK: www.gardenclub.org
How to start a gardening club: http://nin.tl/fTqH5f
Anna is office manager at New Internationalist in Oxford, and our gardening guru.
No comments:
Post a Comment