Brenchley & Matfield Horticultural Society

The Society which was founded in 1875, making it one of the oldest in England, exists to entertain, encourage and educate its 200 or so members. During the winter months a series of five evening talks are provided, which are free to members as is the Wine & Cheese party held in February.

The year proper starts with the Spring Show, which gives everybody a chance to show off their daffodils. Prize winners compete for a cluster of silver cups awarded for house plants, cooking, shrubs and flower arrangements. That is followed in early May by the Plant Sale held on Matfield Green, which provides a source of well grown but cheap plants. Not unlike the first day of Harrod’s sale the queues of buyers form long beforehand. It is also a great opportunity to meet old friends not seen since last year. This year the sale takes place on Sunday 9th May from 1.30pm on Matfield Village Green.

During the Summer a three day bus trip is organised every other year. In 2008 a tour to visit Dutch gardens took place in June and was very successful. Photos of some of the gardens we visited can be found here. This year (2010) there will be a trip in September to visit gardens in the Cotswolds.

In high summer, the Annual Flower Show is held in a marquee on Matfield Green providing a traditional back drop to the St. Luke’s Village Fete. There, the real enthusiasts compete for the best vegetables or roses whilst local WIs vie with one anotherto come first with their displays. Classes for cooking are slowly being infiltrated by male members keen to demonstrate their skills. The 2010 annual show is on 17th July.

Residents may join at anytime by contacting the Hon Treasurer Sam Brookes 01892 832145 or by emailing (click the email contact form at the top of this page) or by completing the form in the back of the Society’s Annual Schedule available free at both post offices.