Looking to continue the success of previous events, Cactus at the Castle will run over 14-15 September and for those looking for plants, the extensive mart with over 30 sellers and 400ft of sale space is an ideal starting place. This year sees a number of new sellers and we are especially excited to be welcoming Eastoft Echeveria and Ottershaw Cacti, who will be joining those that have attended in previous years. We are really pleased to have so many growers, whether they are a commercial venture or just finding homes for their excess propagations. A full list of sellers can be found on the Cactus at the Castle website.
We are also thrilled to announce that Paul Spracklin, who’s important new book The Dry Exotic Garden will be published at the end of August, will be joining us for the weekend. Paul has kindly agreed to give a talk on both days, sharing his wealth of experience of growing cacti and succulents outdoors here in the UK. There will also be the opportunity to buy a copy of his book and have it signed by Paul too.
To share the growing interest in Aeoniums, we have the pleasure of welcoming back Mellie Lewis, who holds the National Collection of Aeoniums. This year, Mellie will be giving a practical demonstration on the propagation and cultivation of this popular genus.
Joining us all the way from Leeds will be Jack Ogg, the Garden Manager of York Gate Garden. Jack and the succulents of York Gate were featured on BBC Gardeners’ World in 2023 and he will be giving a talk on the Succulent House in the Paved Garden at York Gate, sharing how the collection is maintained and used within the garden.
We are delighted and proud to have Perennial, the only UK charity supporting those involved in horticulture, at this year’s event. Look out for their stand to find out more about their work.
On Saturday 14 September, visitors are invited to bring plants to sell at the Bring & Sell auction and Sunday 15 September will see the 2nd Lullingstone Open Show with classes for a wide range of cacti and succulents. The show will be open to everybody to take part. There will also be talks and workshops both days.
Lullingstone Castle is the family seat of BCSS patron Tom Hart Dyke and home to his renowned World Garden of Plants. Tom will be giving guided tours on both event days and there will also be a fabulously colourful display of dahlias by top grower Darren Everest. The castle itself will be open to visitors again and mouth-watering Mexican food will be available too.
The standard admission price is £12.50 but CSR subscribers will be able to enjoy the event for just £6.00 and BCSS members for £10.00. Fancy attending both days? Saturday ticket holders will be able to obtain half price entry for the Sunday (based on their admission band). Children under 16 are admitted free.
Look out for more details in the June and September editions of Cactus and Succulent Review, including information on how to claim discounted entry. In the meantime, please visit the www.cactusandsucculentreview.org.uk/cac ... the-castle
