In this engaging and thought-provoking talk, renowned plantsman Jack Aldridge shines a spotlight on some overlooked garden treasures and explains why they deserve a place in today’s gardens.
Drawing on his horticultural experience, including his work at the world-famous RHS Garden Wisley, Jack will share his personal selection of reliable, beautiful and hard-working plants that have stood the test of time. From long-forgotten perennials and underappreciated shrubs to outstanding plants that offer exceptional colour, structure and seasonal interest, this is a celebration of the plants that gardeners should not allow to vanish.
As well as introducing a range of outstanding garden performers, Jack will offer practical advice on cultivation, planting combinations and how to use these plants effectively in gardens large and small. Expect plenty of inspiration, expert knowledge and fascinating stories from one of Britain’s most upcoming gardeners.
About Jack Aldridge
Jack Aldridge is a horticulturist and writer with a broad range of eclectic plant interests. Newly appointed as Horticultural Curator for the Royal Parks in June 2026, he previously worked at RHS Garden Wisley, where he had responsibility for the Rock Garden and Alpine collections as Team Leader for two years, and the 4.5-acre historic woodland garden known as Oakwood before that.
Upon leaving school, Jack completed the prestigious and intensive Wisley Diploma, graduating in 2022. He greatly enjoys researching, speaking and writing about plants, giving talks to interested groups and contributing regular articles for horticultural publications, as well as writing for IDS Trees and Shrubs online. He is an active member of the RHS Woody Plant Committee and is involved with their Award of Garden Merit trials. He is also a Trustee of Maurice Foster’s White House Farm Garden and Arboretum. In 2024, Jack was honoured to receive the RHS Roy Lancaster Award, given to individuals aged 35 or under who have made ‘an exceptional contribution to the practice, science or promotion of horticulture’.
Directions: From Dublin/Waterford exit the M9 at junction 5 for N80 Rosslare. Continue along the N80 through the village of Ballon and the N80/N81 junction. Turn left at the next crossroad junction signed Altamont Gardens, From Carlow Town follow the N80 through Ballon and continue as above.
Type of event: The talk takes place in an indoor marquee on the grounds of Altamont Plants with the opportunity to view Altamont Gardens and the Corona North Commemorative Border within the grounds of Altamont Plant Sales, either before or after the talk.
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