Join RHS Approved horticultural tutor Caroline (and her faithful dog Tye) on a journey of discovery from the ground up.
Learn about soil and plants in the magical grounds of Hever Castle; a picturesque and inspiring classroom, brimming with mature plant specimens unique to these historically important gardens.
Starting from the ground up, four different topics will be covered; beginning with looking at soil, discovering methods of managing it and selecting composts. Other topics covered will be propagation, pests and diseases and houseplants. A flexible approach to learning will take full advantage of the grounds, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and problem solve issues in your own garden.
Each week will include a practical session and an educated walk round the gardens, so bring your wellies and outdoor clothes!
For those gardeners that would like to develop their skills but do not wish to take exams or undertake the formal RHS Level 2 qualifications, then these hobby gardening courses could be the perfect option.
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Runs weekly from 30 July – 27 August 2024
(2 weeks of teaching, 1 week off, 2 weeks on)
30th July
6th August
20th August
27th August
10:00 – 15:00 (lunch 12:00 – 13:00)
The tutors have taught horticulture, including the RHS courses, for many years and have worked in various sectors of the horticultural industry. They are all passionate about plants and love to share their enthusiasm with others. They are thrilled to be offering horticulture courses in the beautiful and inspiring setting of Hever Castle with its splendid plant collection.
Each week will include a practical session and an educated walk round the gardens.
Topics:
Week 1. Soil and Composts, Composting, Natural Fertilisers, Identifying Nutrient Deficiencies in Plants, Softwood Cuttings
Week 2: Tools & Equipment, Garden Maintenance, Pruning Techniques, Collecting Seed, Sowing Seed
Week 3: Houseplants and Pests and Diseases
Week 4: Autumn Maintenance, Herbaceous Perennials, Basic Surveying Skills, Planting Plans
Tuition Fee: £300 per course
A cancellation fee of £100 will apply if you withdraw two weeks before the start of the course. After this time if you withdraw from the course there is no reimbursement of fees after the start of the course.
Always check the latest details before travelling. Hever Castle reserves the right to close all or part of the Castle, grounds, catering outlets and activities. Please note that use of partner offers may be restricted on some dates, please check before booking.
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.