The Tenterfield Spring Garden Expo is just around the corner and promises to be a blooming highlight of the local calendar.
On Saturday, 13 September, the Tenterfield Memorial Hall will be transformed into a gardener’s paradise from 9 am to 3 pm, offering a day of plants, inspiration, and community spirit. Entry is free, and visitors can enjoy a delicious morning tea or lunch for only $10, making it an affordable and fun outing for all ages.
This year’s theme is “Building Resilient Gardens”, and the program is packed with guest speakers who will share their expertise on everything from dahlias to permaculture.
The Tenterfield Horticultural Society, which organises the expo, has been able to grow the event this year thanks to support from the Fire to Flourish program. Organisers say the funding has allowed them to expand the offering and provide even more value for visitors, ensuring the expo continues to be a showcase of horticultural knowledge and community connection
“Our theme for the year really ties in with the grant funding, because it’s a challenge to have a flourishing garden in a changing climate, so the idea of resilience definitely applies here too,” said Louise Kear, vice president of the Horticultural Society.
“A resilient garden is designed to withstand and recover from environmental stressors like extreme weather, soil depletion, pests, and diseases, while also promoting biodiversity and sustainability.”
Kicking off the day at 9.30 am, local grower Wayne McCosker will talk “All About Dahlias”, a favourite flower in Tenterfield. At 10.30 am, well-known television personality and landscaper Jason Hodges will speak on “Building Resilient Gardens”, offering practical ideas for creating outdoor spaces that stand the test of time.
At 11 am, Janet White will explore how to encourage frogs into your garden, followed by Lana Tyacke at 11.30 am with an introduction to permaculture. The afternoon program begins with another dahlia session from Wayne McCosker at 12.30 pm, Jason Hodges returns at 1 pm for more insights on resilient gardening, and at 2 pm, Graeme Sait will round out the day with expert advice on soil nutrition for gardeners.
“We’re a small community but we have an incredible range of dedicated gardeners – from those who love their cottage and ornamental gardens, right the way through to larger property owners who are trying to improve the flora and fauna diversity on their land,” said Ms Kear.
Alongside the speaker sessions, the expo will feature trade stalls overflowing with plants, seedlings, and gardening supplies, as well as eco-friendly products to help locals create sustainable, water-wise gardens. Floral art displays will also brighten the hall, with visitors encouraged to vote in the People’s Choice Award competition, making the community part of the fun.
Local stallholders are also playing their part, with plenty of opportunities to browse unique goods and take home a special find.
“We’ve got some fantastic arts and crafts involved this year – some local potters with garden ornaments and pots and a whole category dedicated to garden whimsy.”
Ms Kear also encourages anyone who is interested to come and meet the members of the Horticultural Society.
“We meet once a month and we’re always very open to new members, regardless of what kind of garden they own – our motto is ‘flowers, fun and friendship.’”
With spring in the air, the Tenterfield Spring Garden Expo is the perfect excuse to get out and about, pick up some new plants, learn fresh gardening tips, and connect with fellow garden lovers.
Whether you are a seasoned green thumb or just looking for a colourful day out, the expo has something for everyone. Mark the date, bring a friend, and don’t miss this celebration of gardening, sustainability, and community in the heart of Tenterfield.
For more information, visit the Tenterfield Horticultural Society’s Facebook page.
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