The Group’s February 2024 lecture was given by local nurseryman Nick Hamilton of Barnsdale Gardens. He took as his topic ‘Beautiful Berries’. Nick provided such a wealth of information of the value of so many berry-producing plants that enhance the winter garden. A large majority are also good for the wild life.

Malus ‘Sun Rival’, a weeping crab apple is useful with much to offer with lovely flowers, followed by interesting autumn colour and then startling, edible red fruits. Another garden worthy one grown for its’ yellow fruit is ‘Gold Harvest’. Crataegus grignonensis (Hawthorn) is a small glossy-leaved ornamental tree grown for its’ fruits, which the birds seem to leave alone.

Many common varieties should be included in the garden like Cotoneasters and Hollies. The common one, ‘Cornubia’ is very effective for screening and ‘Rothschildianus’ has white flowers in summer and creamy-yellow berries later. He reminded the audience that Hollies must have a male and female nearby to produce berries.’Bacciflava’ produces yellow berries. ’J.C. van Tol’, the native Holly is however, self-fertile, having glossy leaves and producing red berries as a food for the birds.

Other plants covered were Yew, varieties of Berberis, Cornus and Arbutus (Strawberry Tree), Aronias, Skimmias, Gautherias and Vibernum. ‘Davidii’, of the latter genus, needs both male and female plants near to each other and Nick advised buying when there is true evidence available to their gender!

Varieties of Sorbus, Euonymus alatus (winged Spindle), Blueberries and Currants give berries. Iris foetidissima, a pest for prolific seeding, is great for its’ bright orange seed heads. Dianella ’Tas Red is a startling plant with red stems and blue fruits. Ophiopogon japonicus provides dark coloured fruit.

Yes, a great thought provoking talk was given by Nick.