Since Christmas it feels as though the rain has barely paused long enough for the ground to
catch its breath. Lawns are heavy underfoot, borders saturated, and many mornings have
arrived beneath grey skies. There’s an old saying that March comes in like a lion and goes
out like a lamb — and after such a long, wet winter, perhaps we are more than ready for the
lamb.
Rockbarton is making a dramatic change
March is rarely a steady month. It carries movement. Wind one day, softness the next. Light
stretching gently into the evenings. Beneath the soil, roots are stirring, even if growth above
ground still feels hesitant. It is a month of transition — and here at Rockbarton, that feels
especially fitting this year.
New Way Forward
After ten wonderful years as a retail garden centre, I am gradually transitioning the business
into its next chapter. While we have loved supplying plants, compost, gifts and seasonal
treasures, the focus now is shifting toward opening the gardens for tours, workshops,
consultations and learning experiences.
Rather than simply purchasing plants, visitors will be able to spend time in the garden itself
— learning, observing and building confidence in their own spaces. It feels like a natural
evolution, rooted in the years of conversations, questions and shared learning we’ve had
here.
As part of this transition, we are holding a closing clearance sale on all remaining retail stock
— including trees, shrubs, compost, plant food, bird feed, books and gift items. Our final
clearance days will take place Friday 6th, Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th March from 1pm to 5pm. If you’ve
been meaning to stock up or add something new to your garden, this is a lovely opportunity
before we fully close the retail chapter.
New Chapters and Beginnings
Rather than simply purchasing plants, visitors will be able to spend time in the garden itself
— learning, observing and building confidence in their own spaces. It feels like a natural
evolution, rooted in the years of conversations, questions and shared learning we’ve had
here.
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Workshops
March brings two special workshops:
Brush & Bloom — with Orla Hickey, a creative seasonal session
Organic Vegetable Growing — with Colman Power practical guidance for starting your
own food garden
In April, our Cut Flowers Workshop will return — perfect for anyone dreaming of stepping
outside to gather their own blooms.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I’m looking forward to welcoming you into
this next chapter at Rockbarton.
Happy gardening,
Lynda 🌿