Scottish and Northern Borders Group of The Hardy Plant Society
Garden Visits 2026
Lanarkshire, April 2026
Old Farm Cottage
Our recent visit to Old Farm Cottage was thoroughly enjoyable with our members receiving a very warm and generous welcome from its owners.
The garden was looking particularly beautiful in the glorious sunshine, with its delightful spring flowering shrubs and trees, narcissi, camassias, hellebores, primulas and trilliums. Those members who opted for a picnic lunch in the garden had a real treat.
The garden was brought to life by a detailed and very entertaining talk from its owner on the challenges of its transformation from an empty field over 25 years. It was interesting to hear how the garden had matured over time, shaped by experimentation, patience and tremendous enthusiasm.
A huge thanks to our hosts and to those who attended.
Beeches Cottage Nursery
We also received generous hospitality in the sunshine at Beeches Cottage Nursery. Members enjoyed some fabulous plant shopping along with exquisite cakes, teas and coffees. Members commented on how immaculate the garden beds were and on the great quality of the plants.
Saline, March 2026
The group were welcomed to Kirklands by the owners Peter and Gill Hart and as we were a large group, Peter kindly offered to provide two garden tours. The garden was looking at its best, well maintained with lots of hellebores and other early spring flowers.
Sloping woodland paths against banks with hellebore plantings provide easy viewing of the complex flower patterns. Additional paths have been constructed which makes it easy to view the flowers. The snowdrops were still looking good and very plentiful. The garden has a long season of interest with woodland planting, herbaceous borders and a south facing walled garden with strong structural elements; terraces, walls and raised beds for growing fruit and vegetables.
