Spruce up your outdoor entertaining space for spring! Join us and our Head Gardener, Simon, to learn how to plant up 2 patio pots for the perfect backdrop to your outside space. In small groups of no more than 8 you can work at your own pace and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere and (hopefully) the sunshine in the @:Toolerstone gardens. We will provide the refreshments, a delicious homemade wood fire pizza lunch and Toolerstone treats. You also get to take your planters home to show off!

A bit more detail …

During your time with us you will learn about different plants, potting composts and how to care for your patio planters. You will spend the day in our kitchen garden, teaching greenhouse and cosy chalet style Brew Shed

Throughout the day you will cover many aspects of planting pots including:

• Types of containers, choosing plants that will work well in them, and what plants grow well together
• Growing media – what you can mix yourself, and what suits your plant choices
• Drainage, feeding, and other maintenance tasks to ensure your plants thrive

About the tutor

Simon has been the Head Gardener at Toolerstone since December 2012. Previously, he was an estate gardener looking after the grounds and gardens for a large country estate. Simon has always had a passion for gardens, planting and the outdoors . During his twenties he decided to take that interest to the next level and enrolled at college to study Horticulture and Garden Design at RHS level 2. Simon has run his own gardening business and has a passion for teaching. We are thrilled to have Simon on board with us here @:Toolerstone sharing his knowledge and expertise. He also knows a thing or two about cider making, laying a patio and building a fire!

Timetable of the day

10:00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments & toasted teacake

10:30 Introduction to patio planting in the Brew Shed

11:00 Time to start preparing your pots

11:30 Coffee will be served
11:45 Continue with the workshop and work at your own pace
13:00 Garden tour with Simon.
13:30. Delicious homemade wood fire pizzas, served in the Kitchen Garden.
14:30 Workshop ends & your planters are yours to take home

What is included?

• All materials, 2 patio pots, plants & tools
• Aprons are provided for the day
• Refreshments & a delicious home made pizza lunch

What do I need to bring?

It is advised that you wear clothing suitable for gardening and not your Sunday best! Dress for the weather, Cheshire can be unpredictable no matter what the season. Have a waterproof and wellies ready just in case! If we are lucky enough to have a sunny day it is recommended that you bring sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses as you will be outside most of the time.
Gardening gloves would be of benefit.

Experience level

We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic