The Beardy Gardener, award-winning garden designer, broadcaster and mental health advocate, is hosting his inaugural Garden Gathering on Saturday, 21st June 2025, at the picturesque Longstock Park Nursery on the Leckford Estate.
This fundraising event supports Andover Mind’s ‘Garden for Mind’ initiative, a therapeutic green space dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellbeing. The Garden Gathering promises a vibrant day filled with expert-led workshops, live demonstrations, plant sales, and family-friendly activities.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from renowned horticulturists and mental health advocates, including: Chris Hull – BBC Garden Rescue Lee Connelly – Children’s Gardening Expert Ellen Mary – Broadcaster & Author There will be two stages filled with talks including from Katherine Holland, RHS Chelsea gold medal winning garden designer and the renowned mushroom growers the Caley Brothers.
There will be a funky houseplant hub where you can get expert advice from houseplant guru Gemma Haigh, a mini childrens gardening festival led by Lee Connelly as well as an interactive soil zone.
Leigh Johnstone, known as The Beardy Gardener, expressed his excitement: “Gardening quite literally saved my life. When I was at my lowest it was the garden that supported me through it. I have brought together some of my horticultural friends for a celebration of how connecting with nature can uplift our spirits and bring us together.”
All proceeds from the event will benefit Andover Mind’s ‘Garden for Mind,’ a space designed to support mental health through horticultural activities. The garden serves as a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and connection with nature.
Tickets are now available at https://beardygardener.com/garden-gathering