RHSI Russborough Garden Show

Grow Wild at this year’s Garden Show on Sunday, 18th May—featuring expert talks, plant stalls, garden tours, a lively dog show, family fun, and more. Let nature take the lead!

This year’s Garden Show, taking place on Sunday, 18th May, 1pmm to 4pm, invites you to “Grow Wild: Celebrate the Art of Returning to Nature.” At the heart of the event is our Speaker Stage, sponsored by Bord Bia, where some of Ireland’s leading voices in gardening and conservation will share their expertise, ideas, and inspiration.

Among them, June Blake will offer insights into her renowned garden, where she has cultivated a breathtaking collection of plants over the years. Danny Alvey, co-founder of ReWild Wicklow, will speak about his work in habitat restoration and the incredible success of this grassroots movement. Kitty Scully, a passionate advocate for organic growing, will bring her infectious enthusiasm for soil and sustainability. Paul Smyth, a plantsperson and modern-day plant hunter, will share stories of his expeditions and how they’ve influenced his approach to garden design. With a lineup of expert speakers sharing practical advice and fresh perspectives, this is an unmissable opportunity for anyone looking to embrace wilder, more sustainable gardening.

Beyond the speaker sessions, the show will be a vibrant celebration of nature, offering plenty to explore throughout the day. Visitors can browse plant stalls, pick up unique garden accessories, and enjoy a fantastic mix of food, refreshments, music, and entertainment. The RHSI will be selling plants, leading guided garden tours, and teaming up with experts from the Flower Farmers of Ireland to host flower arranging demonstrations, perfect for those looking to bring a touch of wild beauty into their homes.

This year also brings a fun new addition—a lively Dog Show in partnership with the KWWSPCA. Set in the walled garden, this dedicated space will feature lighthearted competitions like Waggiest Tail, Best Rescue Dog, and the Cutest Pooch Parade. The KWWSPCA team will also be on hand to share insights into their work and offer advice on responsible pet adoption.

For families seeking adventure, CP Adventure will be running archery sessions, adding an extra element of excitement to the day. Whether you’re here for the expert talks, the wild garden inspiration, or simply a great day out, the Garden Show 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of nature, sustainability, and the joy of gardening.

Sunday 18th May 10am – 4pm

Schedule

Bord Bia Speaker Stage

11am Rosie Maye
11.45am Kitty Scully
12.30pm June Blake
1.15pm Danny Alvey
2pm Paul Smyth
2.45pm Flower Farmers of Ireland

Plant Sale
10am to 4pm

Walled Garden Activities
Various demonstrations, music and CP Adventures activities for families starting at 10am.

11am-3pm Walled Garden Tours (on the hour)
11.30am Flower Arranging Demo with Flower Farmers of Ireland
2pm – Wild Tails Dog Show with KWWSPCA
All day – Children Seed Sowing Demos

Wild Tails KWWSPCA Dog Show
2pm – Walled Garden

• Waggiest Tail
• Child under 12 with their dog
• Senior Citizen with their dog
• Rescue Dog
• Fancy dress – dog and owner
• Handsomest male dog
• Fanciest female dog
• Child under 16 with their dog
• Open class – large dog (for any large dog that has not won 1st, 2nd or 3rd in the previous classes)
• Open class – small dog (for any small dog that has not won 1st, 2nd or 3rd in the previous classes)
• Best in Show – for dogs in the previous classes who won 1st prize

€5 to enter a class or €10 to enter 3 classes, all proceeds go to the KWWSPCA.