January 2026 Meeting and Show Table

Our first meeting of 2026 welcomed Everett Leeds as our speaker. A Clematis expert, Everett gave an entertaining talk and also sold seeds of some of the Clematis he discussed.

As usual, members enjoyed refreshments, took part in the raffle and, of course, there was the regular Show Table. Six members took part with a wide variety of entries. We hope that as Spring gets going more members will be keen to show off and share their plants that are looking good each month.

There were some thriving and unusual houseplants, as befits a mid-winter show. The three garden-plant entries had something in common – incredible scent, which drew you to the table before you could even see them. Two included Daphne, one entry showcasing the lovely form of Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’. There was also scent from Viburnum farreri and Lonicera fragrantissima (winter honeysuckle), one displayed amongst a generous range of winter berries. Kay won the prize this month, for her delicate selection showing winter form and colour – including, appropriately enough, a winter-flowering Clematis (C. urophylla ‘Winter Beauty’).

As ever, thanks to those running the signing-in table, membership renewals, the raffle, the refreshments and the sound facilities. Congratulations to all the winners.

Ali H