CGS Evening Lecture

Camellia expert explores the history of tea.

Camellia expert explores the history of tea and shares flower show tricks of the trade

The Cornwall Garden Society’s (CGS) March lectures will be presented by camellia expert, Jeremy Wilson.

In his first lecture, Jeremy will recount the fascinating history of tea and the plant from which it derives, Camellia sinensis.

In his second talk, he will reveal the secrets of how to grow and exhibit camellias at flower shows – a must for Cornwall’s camellia growers who are planning to enter the horticultural classes at the CGS 2024 Spring Flower Show at the Royal Cornwall Showground on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th April!

Having worked for more than 30 years in horticulture, Jeremy has a wealth of information to draw from.

His career has spanned growing bedding plants and field-grown trees to crops and weeds for chemical testing. He has also worked for English Heritage and the University of Cambridge as a gardener, and as Head Gardener for a number of private estates.

Jeremy took over Strete Gate Camellias in a picturesque spot overlooking the sea, near Dartmouth in South Devon, in 2011 and now propagates and sells in excess of 500 different camellias to garden centres and other retail outlets.

He is a regular exhibitor at Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) shows where he has previously been awarded a Gold medal and is currently preparing to attend this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

A History of Tea will be Jeremy’s subject on Tuesday 12th March at 7.30pm at The Alverton in Truro whilst Camellias: How to Grow and Show will be his topic on Wednesday 13th March at 2.30pm at Penventon Park Hotel in Redruth.

Jeremy will be offering a selection of camellias for sale at both events.

These lectures are free for CGS members. Non-members are welcome to attend to find out more about the Society and donations are gratefully received.