Boston Flora

Tag: RHS Wisley

  • Monday, June 14 – Tuesday, June 22 – Great Gardens of Southern England

    Immerse yourself in the rich horticultural heritage of southern England on this American Horticultural Society expertly curated journey through some of the world’s most celebrated gardens and landscapes. From iconic destinations like Sissinghurst, Great Dixter, and Kew Gardens to intimate, privately owned estates, this program offers rare access, behind-the-scenes insights, and meaningful connections with the people who shape these extraordinary places. Along the way, explore the evolution of British garden design, from Arts & Crafts masterpieces and Victorian glasshouses to contemporary plantings, while enjoying charming accommodations, thoughtfully curated meals, and cultural visits to historic towns such as Canterbury and Rye. The trip, June 14 – 22, 2027, may be explored in detail at https://ahsgardening.org/travel-study-program/england2027/. You may also call (703) 768-8801 or email travel@ahsgardening.org

    Trip Highlights

    • Expert-led visits to iconic gardens including Sissinghurst and Great Dixter
    • Insider access to extraordinary gardens not typically open to the public, with intimate tours led by owners, head gardeners, and expert horticulturists
    • Engaging, behind-the-scenes conversations that bring each landscape to life, from historic restoration stories to modern design approaches
    • A rich journey through British garden design, from Gertrude Jekyll–inspired Arts & Crafts masterpieces to Victorian glasshouses and contemporary plantings
    • Immersive visits to world-renowned horticultural institutions, including Kew Gardens and RHS Wisley, with time to explore their vast collections
    • Exploration of England’s cultural landscapes, including Canterbury, Rye, and Chartwell, blending garden history with literary and architectural heritage
    • Moments of classic English charm, from afternoon tea at a historic estate to strolls through walled gardens, orchards, and countryside settings

  • Monday, January 8, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Eastern – A Gardening Year at Grim’s Dyke

    Take a tour through the seasons and through history at Grim’s Dyke, former home of the famous Victorian librettist and wit WS Gilbert and Victorian painter Frederick Goodhall. Named after the ancient earthwork that wends its way through the grounds, this lovely Arts & Crafts mansion situated high on Harrow Weald is now a hotel with grade II listed gardens. In this talk discover a taste of the estate history, an insight into the lives of the former residents and the current trials and tribulations of the gardeners in their bid to upkeep and restore this wonderful place.  

    Helenka Jurgielewicz has been Head Gardener at Grim’s Dyke Hotel for 15 years. She grew up in Yorkshire and undertook her horticultural training at Capel Manor NCH, RHS Wisley and Royal Botanic Gardens Kew where she secured her Diploma of  Horticulture ( Hons). Former jobs include Conservation work in Mauritius – island restoration planting. TV Horticultural researcher for BBC ‘Year at Kew’ series. Archaeologist – rescue archaeology excavator for York Archaelogy Trust, latterly Museum of London amongst many others. 

    The online talk, sponsored by London Parks & Gardens, takes place January 8 at 1 pm Eastern. £5.00. Register HERE