Frittenden Gardening Society News

2025 Annual General Meeting - 19th February 2025

At the recent Frittenden Gardening Society Annual General Meeting, members took the opportunity to thank Duncan Rouse for his many years of dedicated service as Chairman. Appreciation was also given to Bernard Millard for kindly checking the Society’s accounts and to everyone who welcomed members into their gardens last year. A reminder was shared that the Society is always looking for new gardens to visit—large or small, tidy or wild. These informal meetups are a great way to socialise, exchange gardening ideas, and discuss garden plans. Anyone interested in opening their garden should get in touch with Sian Hunter or another committee member. Members were also reminded that the Spring Show is fast approaching, and to check the village notices for details.  

Following the AGM, attendees were treated to an engaging talk by multiple RHS Gold medal winner Steve Edney, former head gardener at The Salutation Gardens in Sandwich. With over 17 years of experience at The Salutation, Steve shared his extensive knowledge and passion for horticulture.

In his presentation, Steve discussed his latest venture, The No Name Nursery, which he co-founded with his partner, Louise Dowle (https://www.thenonamenursery.co.uk). Established in 2019 on a three-acre site, the nursery serves as a "plant playground" where they cultivate and test a diverse range of plants, including perennials and exotics. Their commitment to sustainability is evident, as they grow plants on-site and focus on creating a space that fosters both plant and wildlife communities. Notably, they also maintain four National Plant Collections: Persicaria virginiana cultivars, dark-leaved dahlias, Pseudopanax cultivars, and Plectranthus.

Steve also shared fascinating insights into kitchen gardening, discussing ways to grow vegetables and annuals together, the benefits of living plant sun shades, managing soil temperatures, and experimenting with unusual crops. His practical advice and innovative approach to sustainable gardening provided valuable inspiration to all members present.

Steve Edney, our guest speaker at the 2025 AGM