Spring Plant Fair at Borde Hill Gardens

Top class exhibitions of rare rhododendrons, magnificent magnolias and collectable camellias, local food, drink and craft stands are all on offer at Borde Hill Garden's Spring Plant Fair on Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 April 2008.

The Show presents a flowering haven with a burst of spring colour and a horticultural feast of plants. To compliment the relaxing atmosphere visitors will also enjoy the live music of the Jazz Band.

The RHS South East Rhododendron, Camellia & Magnolia Group in conjunction with the International Camellia Society organise the competitive aspect of the show which affords the largest gathering of rhododendron, magnolia and camellia exhibits in full bloom outside the RHS main shows. Experts from the two groups will be there to give on-site practical garden tips on how to grow healthy specimens throughout the year.

Borde Hill with its world renowned 'Collection' has created an international reputation for its rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias, and is the perfect host for this prestigious show. For the first time the 'Great Gardens of Sussex', a partnership of five of the most important and historic gardens in Sussex, consisting of Wakehurst Place, High Beeches, Nymans, Leonardslee and Borde Hill will compete against each other alongside other horticulturalists to win the much sought after awards. These include the International Camellia Society Plate, John Hilliard Cup, John Fox Plate and Borde Hill Vase.

With some 300 specimens, over 50 categories, likely to be competing in the show, experts will judge the exotic blooms on the Saturday morning, ahead of the official opening at 11.30am.

Whether you are an enthusiast or a newcomer to gardening, the Show is set to provide you with inspiration for your garden with over 2000 exciting and unusual plants on sale by many specialist nurseries along with top class horticultural sundries.

Borde Hill's head gardener, Malcolm Goodwin, said 'the competition showcases some of the best plants grown by some of the best gardens in the country. It's a wonderfully exciting start to the season and promises to be a riot of colour with an extra bit of competitive spice thrown in for good measure'.

The Spring Plant Fair will be open to the public from 10am-5pm on both days, with the Show Marquee opening at 11.30am on the Saturday. Entrance tickets are adults £7.50, concessions £6.50, and children £4.00 (under 3's free)