The gardener’s notebook: plant fairs and garden open days in London this spring

I love plant fairs. They have all the thrill of a flea market – you’re never more than a pot away from the discovery of a lifetime, and you can meet some exceptionally knowledgeable experts (don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you get plant names wrong).

I’m sure many people are as guilty as I am of having bigger eyes than my garden, buying way too many plants.

Go to plant fairs with a strategy.

Know your space, how much sunlight and water it gets, and buy plants in threes or more for a natural, substantial arrangement.

London plant fairs

Garden Museum Spring Plant Fair

Sunday, April 16, between 10:00 and 16:00

The museum has curated a star-studded line-up of nurseries including Great Dixter, Beth Chatto and Nobottle.

It was organized by Hackney plant designer Susanna Grant (@hellotherelinda), who also sells plants.

Tickets £5 (gardenmuseum.org.uk)

Chelsea Physic Garden Spring Open Day

Saturday, April 22, 10:00-17:00

This year the Chelsea Physic Garden turns 350 and is holding an open day. In the historic walled garden you’ll find 30 stalls including Plantdrop London and Earthsong Seeds.

The cafe will be open and your ticket gives you access to the gardens at half the usual price.

Tickets £7 on the door

Plant Fair Display — Telegraph Hill Center

Saturday, May 13, 1-4 p.m

Spruce up your outdoor space ahead of the Chelsea Flower Show.

Nurseries include specialist bulb grower Rose Cottage Plants and Pineview Plants, growers of a huge range of ferns.

Tickets £4 on the door

Roadshow Plant Fairs — Horniman Museum

Saturday, June 10, 10am-4pm

You’ll find 13 nurseries as you take in the views, such as Copton Ash and Pelham Plants selling their wares, from drought-tolerant plants to bee-perfect ones.

Tickets £7.50 on the door; free garden