Nick Macer speaking to the IGPS group in Cork. Photograph from Bruno Nicolai
Nick Macer speaking to the IGPS group in Cork. Photograph from Bruno Nicolai

There was a large turn out of IGPS members and guests for Nick Macer’s talk on the 24th of January in Cork. Nick has travelled extensively in search of new and interesting plants and has introduced many of these through his Pan Global Plants Nursery. He presented his plants in groups “Small”, “Big”, “Bigger” and “Bark” rather than in a geographical arrangement matching his expeditions, a generally more common approach, which added to the amusing – as with the title – approach he took to his subject.

Those plants which turn Nick on were, by and large, his own discoveries and introductions and as many are not as yet widely available were generally unfamiliar to the audience. A talk which is educational as well as entertaining is always enjoyed and appreciated.

The talk was in Northridge House, St. Luke’s Home, Blackrock, the new venue for Munster winter talks. It is an excellent location with ample parking and ease of access and should encourage more people to attend.

The ever popular raffle at such events was especially popular last evening as there was a beautiful selection hellebores on offer and the winners went home delighted with their good fortune.

The next talk at Nortridge House will be presented by Billy Alexander of Kells Bay Garden in Co. Kerry on the 7th February. Do come along and join us!

Nick Macer visiting Blarney Castle Gardens with Adam Whitbourn, Head Gardener at Blarney, Martin Edwardes, Margaret McAuliffe, Chairperson  IGPS Munster, and Janet Edwardes.
Nick Macer visiting Blarney Castle Gardens with Adam Whitbourn, Head Gardener at Blarney, Martin Edwardes, Margaret McAuliffe, Chairperson IGPS Munster, and Janet Edwardes.     Photo supplied by Margaret McAuliffe. 

Paddy Tobin