About the Venue:
Chiswick House is among the most glorious examples of 18th-century British architecture. The 3rd Earl of Burlington, who designed this noble Roman-style Palladian villa, drew inspiration from his Grand Tours of Italy. The Gardens – birthplace of the English Landscape Movement – are open following a major restoration which has revealed the original vistas and repaired the statues and garden buildings.

About the Tutor:
This Workshop will be run by Chris Poole, former Chairman of the European Boxwood & Topiary Society (EBTS UK), and Specialist Volunteer at Chiswick House and Gardens, with assistance from one of the Garden Team.

About the Workshop:
The Workshop will focus on practical ways to create shape and form from existing plants to enhance a garden. So if you’ve been nervous about shaping up shrubs and bushes in yours, or a client’s garden, this Workshop will give you the knowledge you need, the hands-on experience, and the confidence to get started.

We will cover:

• What tools to use – how to sharpen and keep your tools clean.
• Why, when and which plants can be shaped.
• Reading the landscape – looking at and working out what options you have.
• Practical implementation.

The first three items listed above will be carried out in the Conservatory, whilst the last three will be in the garden looking at an area, discussing and working out what to do, followed by hands-on practical implementation of everything that has been covered.

Food/Drink:
Tea and coffee will be provided. Please bring your own lunch or purchase food from the onsite café.

Special Instructions:
Please wear suitable clothing for working outside around shrubs and bushes and in the British weather (including waterproofs and suitable footwear).
Please bring your own tools (secateurs and hand shears) so you can learn how to clean and sharpen them – additional tools will be available to try out.