Body, soul and gardening - the joy of gardening with others

Much as I love gardening alone, there’s something particularly good for the soul about gardening with others.  It’s great to be with like-minded people who share your horticultural passion.  And while having someone to natter to while you’re weeding is fun, just working in companionable silence is cheering too.  Here are our thoughts on ways to garden sociably:

• Volunteer. Working for your local National Trust property or stately home allows you to be in beautiful gardens, work with other volunteers and learn from the staff gardeners.
• Get an allotment. This is a brilliant way of getting inspiration, sharing tips and produce and making friends.  Many allotments have plant sales, a shop and a committee organising social events.
• Join a gardening club or set one up.  Most towns have a gardening club or why not set one up with neighbours to help each other and swap cuttings. National clubs and societies such as the British Clematis Society or Garden History Society often have local branches that meet monthly and invite specialists to talk.
• Work with your gardener.  Find a gardener who you can work alongside and learn from or collaborate with.