Don't forget you can find a copy of the Monthly Tips & Tasks here
June
Tuesday 3rd 6pm & Wednesday 4th 1pm
Main Speaker: Michael Brown Rose Pruning Demonstration
Mini Speaker: Mel Haskell New Zealand Gardens Trust
A passionate plantsman renowned for his extensive experience in growing and hybridizing roses, daffodils, chrysanthemums, and begonias. As the current and former president of the Canterbury Rose Society, Michael has showcased his expertise at a national level, both as a competitor and judge. Now retired, he dedicates his time to creating new blooms on his 1-hectare property in Loburn, North Canterbury. Michael will be conducting a live pruning demonstration with plants suitable for pruning in bush and miniature form.
Mini Speaker: Mel Haskell New Zealand Gardens Trust
Mel Haskell joins us to talk about the Trust and in particular the role of urban gardens within the Trust. Mel is also a co-owner of Casa Rosa
Learn more about the trust here: www.gardens.org.nz
July
Tuesday 1st 6pm & Wednesday 2nd 1pm
Main Speaker Tuesday Evening: tbc
Main Speaker Wednesday afternoon: Greg Quinn Home Orchard Care
Mini Speaker: Aaron Curtis from Shiro Bonsai
Home Orchard Care
Greg Quinn is a specialist in home orchard care, offering expert pruning, renovation, and pest and disease management for backyard and lifestyle block fruit trees in the Greater Christchurch area. With years of experience working in commercial and private orchards across New Zealand, Australia, and the UK, Greg brings a deep understanding of tree health and fruit production.
He’s passionate about restoring neglected or damaged trees, using traditional techniques often lost in today’s commercial fruit industry. Whether caring for a single tree or a diverse kitchen orchard, Greg helps ensure fruitful, resilient trees for years to come.
Bonsai
Aaron's journey in horticulture began with formal study and hands-on experience in the industry, all while nurturing a deep passion for bonsai. Inspired by international bonsai masters and driven by a clear vision to turn his passion into a profession, Aaron transformed his expertise into a flourishing career.
He now runs Shiro Bonsai, a specialist bonsai nursery and online store, alongside Kusamono Café, a unique retail space and café dedicated to bonsai culture. His mission is simple: to make bonsai accessible, inspiring, and enjoyable for enthusiasts across the country. With unwavering dedication and a genuine love for the art, Aaron continues to share his knowledge with the wider community. We’re delighted to have him as the tutor for our upcoming Bonsai Workshop.