No Green Thumb? No Problem!

What it’s really like to come along to a DGS gardening workshop?

Let’s be honest—when some people hear “gardening workshop”, they picture a stern instructor, a Latin plant glossary, and a clipboard full of soil pH readings. At DGS, we prefer Laughter over Latin and Tea over Textbooks.

Our ‘Cultivate & Connect’ workshops are designed for everyone – yes, even you, the one who once mistook a weed for a wildflower and proudly watered it for weeks. Whether you’re a horticultural hero or have never held a trowel in your life, you’ll be welcomed with muddy hands and open hearts.

Here’s what to expect:

• A warm brew on arrival (and probably a biscuit or three)
• Grinning with tears of joy face outline outline Gentle, hands-on activities like sowing seeds, potting bulbs, or just pottering about
• A relaxed, supportive group where no one’s keeping score
• A chance to make new friends, breathe, reset, and maybe even laugh at someone trying to plant a glove thinking it was a bulb (true story)

You don’t need to bring anything but yourself. We’ve got the tools, the gloves, and the know-how. And if you’re not sure what to do, don’t worry, half of us are just winging it with enthusiasm and a vague memory of Gardeners’ World.

One participant said:

“I came for the gardening, but I stayed for the banter, and the biscuits. Mostly the biscuits.”

Another told us,

“It’s the first place I’ve been where I didn’t have to explain myself. I just turned up, and that was enough”.

So, if you’re thinking about it, just come along. You won’t be judged, you won’t be quizzed, and you won’t be bored. Just bring yourself, and maybe a coat. It is the UK, after all.

Come and see what’s growing inside and out. Workshop dates and locations are as follows:

• October 9 2025 – Helensburgh, Argyll & Bute
• October 23 2025 – Scone Palace, Perth
• November 6 2025 – Linburn Walled Garden, Kirknewton, Edinburgh
• TBC – Highlands

To register please contact charlie@defencegardens.org.