How the RHSI grows – A gardener’s tale

In the RHSI, where laughter reigns free,
More than 1400 souls, a jolly decree.
Promoting gardening’s art, young and old,
Nature’s tale, a story to be told.

Active members, a lively band,
Fighting for nature, joy so grand.
In the counting house, Kathleen’s the star,
Money talks, and she plays the part.

Philip and Orlaith, dreams unfold,
But Kathleen’s “no” is firm and bold.
In the office, Orlaith brings joy,
Cheerful, helpful, no task too coy.

Fortnightly bulletins, a garden delight,
The Journal’s magic, oh, what a sight.
Peter, our editor, leads the parade,
Countless hours, our journal’s trade.

Philip, our Chair, with a heart of gold,
Hetherington Medal, a story to be told.
Endless hours, RHSI’s lucky find,
One in a million, heart and mind.

His voice, a welcome in our Zoom domain,
Optimism and drive, like a joyful refrain.
Zoom talks span from Oman’s heat,
To macro shots where bogs entreat.

Russborough, Bellefield, Laurelmere crew,
In all weathers, they work anew.
With good humour, chat, and pride so sincere,
Creating gardens that showcase what we hold dear.

Susan, Emily, Mags, and more in our crew,
Events team magic, bringing joy anew.
Workshops, visits, a joyous blend,
For members’ delight, they tirelessly attend.

At the RHSI plant fair, a joyous affair,
Bruce and Bernie, with gardening flair.
Donated plants, a lush rainbow’s gain,
900 pots potted in sunshine and rain.

Bellefield, middle of Ireland’s heart,
Angela Jupe’s gem, a work of art.
2000 visitors in its premiere,
Open weekends, our walled garden cheer.

Head gardener Paul, on his red tractor bold,
With a merry bunch, gardens unfold.
Hazels’ coffee show on open weekends,
Tray bakes and cakes, oh, how they transcend.

Under Noreen’s guiding hand, a garden array,
Partner gardens, more than fifty, oh, hooray!
A valuable resource, a members’ delight,
Prestigious havens, from dawn till night.

Bus trips, gardens, chat, and fun,
Even a sing-song when the day is done.
To England we go, with Peter at the helm,
Gardens galore and loads of whelm.

To members dear, a heartfelt cheer,
Your support, a treasure, crystal clear.
Fill your buckets, Chlorophyll in tow,
Grow into 2024, let our garden’s joy flow.

Wishing you all a Christmas so bright,
Filled with joy, love, and festive light.