More than 40 of Rotorua’s finest gardens will be on show from November 15-17 as the city’s 2019 festival of gardens unfolds.

This year the “world famous in NZ gardening circles” Lynda Hallinan is keynote presenter. Visiting gardens, answering questions, providing expert advice and delivering hands-on demonstrations, Lynda will cover a range of topics and activities for gardeners of all ages and stages.

On Friday night, November 15, she’ll host an inspiring edible gardening session to make the most of your backyard bounty.

“Lynda will share practical tips for growing fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as her favourite seasonal recipes and modern preserving methods to tempt your tastebuds,” says festival organising committee vice president Jude Livingston.

On Saturday morning, November 16, she’ll offer fresh ideas for spring gardens. “Here, Lynda will present an entertaining and practical workshop at Palmers, showcasing the best new plants and old-fashioned favourites for picking, produce, pollination and pleasure,” says Jude.

“Learn tricks and techniques, plus eco-friendly options for pest and disease control. And bring your questions for Lynda to answer!”

Jude says several of the festival gardens will feature musicians and artists from the Rotorua Arts Community throughout the weekend. “And garden owners will be on-hand to talk about their gardens, provide growing tips and insights, and to share in the joy of gardening.

In its 20^th year, the biennial festival is considered a ‘must do’ for avid gardeners of all ages, and is the highlight of the Rotorua district’s gardening calendar, says Jude.

A comprehensive festival garden and visitors guide is supplied with ticket purchase, offering a review of gardens and map of Rotorua, with all gardens marked for ease of planning visits.

Festival tickets are $45 each and provide access to all festival gardens during three days. Children under 14 enter for free.

Tickets are on sale at Palmers Garden Centre, Sala St; McLeods Booksellers, Pukuatua St; Living Colour, Eruera St; at: www.rotoruagardens.org.nz or email: rfogtickets@gmail.com

Or write to: Rotorua Festival of Gardens Ticket Sales, PO Box 2264, Rotorua, 3020. Or Phone: Phil Painter on 07 345 6755.

This year the festival’s designated charity is Rotorua St Johns Ambulance Hospital Shuttle. Plus donated festival tickets will go to local community and charitable organisations.