Wander the grounds of Ballyfin, starting a cut flower bed & faerie folklore

By Megan Burns
14th Apr 2018

Wander the grounds of Ballyfin, starting a cut flower bed & faerie folklore

“There ought to be gardens for all months in the year, in which, severally, things of beauty may then be in season.” – Francis Bacon

As we finally shake off the never-ending winter, we’re yearning to get back outside. Whether you’re most excited for spring blooms, the bumbling flight of bees in summer, autumn’s generous edible offerings or frosty wintertime walks, we’ve packed a year full of outdoor joy into our annual Garden Heaven magazine.

Ballyfin Garden Tour

We speak to the head gardener who helps make the walled gardens of this luxurious Laois destination worth a visit in themselves. From roses and beautiful borders to a kitchen garden that supplies the restaurant with fresh produce, there’s a delight around every corner.

Organic Flower Farming

Fionnuala Fallon shows us how you can have garden-fresh cut flowers year-round by growing in tune with the seasons. While many florist’s bouquets depend on chemicals and long-distance transport from foreign countries, prioritising what can be grown here and when means you’ll have a changing display throughout the year.

Wicklow Garden Tour

Designed by Oliver Schurmann of Mount Venus Nursery, this mountainside garden blurs the boundaries of garden and countryside to fit into the spectacular surrounding views. Ornamental grasses, meadow-style perennials and carefully chosen shrubs all ensure it feels true to the spirit of the area.

Tinnock Candles

Discover the meditative process of making soy candles by hand in Kirsten Ivors’ kitchen, surrounded by beautiful south Tipperary farmland. She uses local, natural ingredients to create dreamy fragrances.

Forest Folklore

Our native woodlands have inspired a rich history of Irish folklore. Whispers of faeries, warnings of eternal sleep and plants that hold the powers of enchantment all hang in the air as you step through the trees.