Press Release

Thousands of snowdrops to banish winter blues

Wakehurst Place

23 January 2007

A carpet of snowdrops will greet visitors to Kew's country garden, near Haywards Heath, over the next few weeks.

Last year more than 100,000 snowdrop bulbs were planted outside the Visitor Centre at Wakehurst Place in Ardingly

The bulbs are now starting to burst into flower and provide a welcome splash of dazzling white colour, and a taste of spring, for visitors to the gardens on even the greyest January day. The display is expected to last for about a month.

Andy Jackson, Head of Wakehurst Place, said: "Snowdrops are always a favourite plant because their arrival is seen as a sign that spring is on its way."

"We hope the sight of swathes of snowdrops will really lift people's spirits and create a buzz as they arrive at Wakehurst."

Snowdrops are among a wealth of seasonal delights at Wakehurst, which make it the perfect place to banish the winter blues and enjoy a crisp walk. The winter garden is also at its best, with glorious heathers, winter flowering shrubs, brightly coloured dogwoods and ornamental grasses providing a rich mix of colour and interest.

Purchasing and planting of the snowdrops was made possible through donations to the Foundation and Friends of Kew, a charity which supports Kew and Wakehurst by raising funds and awareness of their conservation and scientific work. The scheme enables people to remember a loved one or celebrate a special occasion at Wakehurst Place through the sponsorship of bulbs, woodlands or wildflower seeds.

Rob Yates, from the Foundation, said: "Wakehurst plays a special part in people's lives and having had many happy times here, people feel they want to give something back to support the gardens; their contribution makes a real difference."   If you would like to make a gift call Rob on 01444 894035.

Wakehurst Place is on the B2028 between Ardingly and Turners Hill, four miles north of Haywards Heath, and is open daily from 10am. Winter closing is at 4.30pm (last admission 4pm.)   Tel 01444 894066 for more information or visit the website www.kew.org

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MEDIA enquiries to Andy Jackson 01444 894054 or 01444 894067.

Foundation and Friends of Kew, Rob Yates 01444 894035

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