A festival of friendship, fun, food and fronds.

This October our ninth Symposium promises to be better than ever. With a distinct International flavour, you’ll meet five expert speakers over three days. In beautiful surroundings and with great food too.
Every gardener from beginner to expert will find something to enjoy.

Listening, Questioning, Discussing and Learning.

Who can attend?  

Anybody with an interest in plants is invited to attend, everyone is welcome. A Symposium Ticket makes an ideal Gift for the Plant Lover in your life. You can book tickets here>

Images from the 2022 Symposium, Click to enlarge.

When is it on?

This year’s Symposium takes place Friday, 4th October – Sunday, 6th October 2024

Please note the Saturday only event is sold out.

Who are this year’s guest speakers?

Adam Frost, BBC Gardeners’ World, England
“For a Love of Plants”

Jimi Blake, Hunting Brook Gardens, Co. Wicklow
“‘A Deep Dive into the Woodand Plant Collection in Hunting Brook”

Scott McMahan, Atlanta Botanical Gardens, USA
“Plant Exploration in Vietnam and North East India”

Derry Watkins, Special Plants Nursery, England
“Breathless – Plants of the Andes, Himalaya and Alps”

Raf Lenaerts, Botanic Treasures, Belgium
“’Cultivating Rare and New Magnolias”

A brief history of the Southern Symposium

In Summer 2014, after 7 years in Kells Bay, Billy Alexander reached the “End of the Beginning” of his work at Kells. The mammoth task of reclaiming the Gardens and restoring the House was in hand, and it was now time to celebrate and publicise the achievement. A Who’s Who of Irish horticulture assembled at Kells Bay heard talks from Seamus O’Brien of the National Botanic Gardens, and the legendary Roy Lancaster.

The weekend of discussion, food, wine and fun in the gardens was such a success it was instituted as an annual event to celebrate gardening, plants and landscapes.
Since then, the event has become fixed as a highlight of Munster’s horticultural calendar. Its roll-call of speakers is a list of the horticultural Pantheon.

The wonderful hospitality, relaxed and friendly atmosphere ensure delegates return annually to renew, refresh and learn.