This year ‘Magnolia Week’ is a new event at the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Kilmacurragh, running from March 6th to 11th. The week features daily fixtures; the release of videos on our YouTube channel and guided walks highlighting the many magnolias throughout the gardens.
Highlights of the week include:
Friday 10th March at 2 pm. A guided walk led by Seamus O’Brien, Head Gardener at Kilmacurragh, and Jim Gardiner, author, international Magnolia expert and former Curator of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden at Wisley in Surrey, UK. Seamus and Jim will highlight their favourite magnolias, both young and old, relating their history and merits. If weather permits, Kilmacurragh’s famous Magnolia campbellii should be in bloom at the time. Booking essential. No fee.
Saturday 11th March at 2 pm. In the auditorium at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. An illustrated lecture by Jim Gardiner, author, international Magnolia expert and former Curator of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden at Wisley in Surrey, UK.
Title: Magnolia Introductions from the UK and Europe and Collections of Excellence
Summary of lecture: The presentation will provide an overview of the Genus,highlighting the Individuals who have helped establish and shape these collections in Gardens. Magnolia species and cultivars that have been raised and grown in them will be profiled enabling these gardens to be revered as gardens of excellence.
Questions and answers relating to the talk will be taken by a panel after Jim’s lecture.
Booking essential. No fee.