Fergus Cumming is the current Vice-President of Busby and Clarkston Horticultural Society, a society which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022, with roots going back to 1947.

As well as having an excellent monthly winter talks series, an annual members’ outing, and an annual flower show, the Society has hosted the Beechgrove Potting Shed twice and Radio 4’s Gardeners Question Time.

In this episode, Fergus sheds light on the pivotal role local horticultural clubs play in community engagement and the ongoing challenge of attracting younger members. We delve into leadership transition, community outreach, and the significance of their much-anticipated annual flower show. Fergus shares his insights on simplifying competitions, maintaining a friendly environment, leveraging social media to reach a broader audience, and how to keep things relevant and engaging for a local audience.

Fergus also shares his top gardening tips, the importance of learning from experienced growers, and his favourite plants to grow and show.

Busby & Clarkston Horticultural Society have the pleasure of hosting the Scottish Gardeners' Forum Annual Winter Gathering on 9th November in Clarkston Halls and more information can be found on the event HERE.

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This series is sponsored by ROOTS, a subscription from the National Trust for Scotland which helps both your garden and Trust gardens thrive.

For £7 a month you will be sent a ROOTS pack every six weeks, with gardening gifts, including Scottish seeds six times a year, stories about Scotland’s plant life, and tips from  expert Trust gardeners, as well as an invitation to two exclusive ROOTS events a year with the Trust gardens team.

Whether you buy ROOTS for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, your £7 a month will go towards supporting Trust gardens and designed landscapes in Scotland. Sign up today at nts.org.uk/roots and use the code Grows24 to receive an extra packet of seeds in your first pack.

Find out more here: www.nts.org.uk/roots