We are a lively group who all share a love of gardening, plants and gardens in all their forms. During the summer we go out to visit fairly local private gardens of many differing types.

During winter months we meet with the Garden Appreciation Group 2 to enjoy an interesting collection of talks at the Ragged School on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Any u3a member can attend or anyone that would like to can join. Please use the front door opposite Costa. The entry is £4.00 including free raffle.

November 20 2025 2pm
We have Frances Burton talking about Herbal Medicines, focusing on
plants from the garden. She discusses how herbs can help health and
look at scientific evidence, as well as traditional usage.

December 11 2025 2pm (please note this is the 2nd Thursday because of
Christmas) The talk is by James Elson: Can perennial vegetables save
the planet? The talk is about vegetables, crops and microbial
fermentation.

January 15 2026 2pm
The talk is the Potty Plotters. They have a slot on Radio Derby. This will
be filled with humour and plenty of gardening tips. Looking forward to
this one.

February 19 2026 2pm
The speaker is Jeff Bates who will talk about the East Midlands in
Bloom.

March 13 2026 2pm
The speaker is Rachel Barrowcliffe talking about container gardening. This is probably one of the best months for this subject.

April 16 2026 2pm (This is the last talk of the Winter Season)
The speaker is Hildegard Wiesohofer who is the County Organiser for the NGS gardens. We use these gardens for our summer visits.