Friends of the University of Leicester Botanic Garden

01/11/2026

Diary date for :Talk by Pip Smith — The Bleak Midwinter (Colours in Winter)
Date: 23 November 2026
Arrival: 10:30 a.m. for 11 00am start.
Venue details See below.

The talk may explore how colour, light, landscape, and atmosphere change during the winter months. It could consider the beauty found in muted winter tones.The presentation may also include examples of winter scenes, natural forms, and creative responses to the colder, darker winter months.

Venue:

The talk will take place in Beaumont House Stoughton Road South LE2 2NA .Please note that visitors should access the venue from the opposite side of Stoughton Drive South entrance, and park in the Glebe Road LE2 2LD. Non-members are welcome to attend with a £2.00 donation, or free if they take
out membership. Student Free.

24/10/2026

Why you need to Visit ?
Hi
Here is the latest film about Why you need to visit the University of Leicester Botanical Garden in autumn of 2026 link by Courtesy of Tony Ward.

Venue Details.

Stoughton Road South LE2 2NA .Please note that visitors should access the venue from the opposite side of Stoughton Drive South entrance, and park in the Glebe Road LE2 2LD.

Botanical Gardens, Oadby, Leicestershire Take a peaceful walk thr...

18/10/2026

On 12 October 2026, the speaker Geoff Hodges began his presentation by defining a houseplant and explaining that it is grown in an environment different from its natural habitat. He then discussed the key factors to consider when purchasing houseplants, particularly the condition of their roots. Healthy plants should have strong, white roots.

The speaker also emphasised the importance of monitoring temperature fluctuations during the colder months, especially when caring for poinsettias. He identified cyclamen, poinsettias, and indoor azaleas as the three most popular plants during the Christmas season.

Proper watering is essential when caring for houseplants. The speaker explained that plants need the correct amount of water because their roots require air to function properly; overwatering can prevent this. He also stressed the importance of feeding plants during their growth stage.

Although some plants require humidity levels of up to 90%, maintaining this level in a typical home can be difficult. Finally, he explained that orchids should be repotted regularly i e 3 to 4 yearly because their bark-based growing medium tends to break down every three to four years.

The attending audience found Geoff Hodges presentation style and contents very interesting.

05/10/2026

Join us for a lively and informative talk by Geoff Hodge on growing and caring for houseplants.

Organised by the Friends of Leicester Botanic
at the University of Leicester Botanic Garden on Monday October 12th 2026 10.30am for 11am start.

Venue:

The will take place in Beaumont House Stoughton
Road South LE2 2NA .Please note that visitors
should access the venue from the opposite side of
Stoughton Drive South entrance, and park in the
Glebe Road LE2 2LD. Non-members are welcome
to attend with a £2.00 donation, or free if they take
out membership on the day.Students Free

06/08/2026

Koi Feeding Video Courtesy of Tony Ward August 2026.

& About at the Botan...

22/07/2026

Join us for a facinating talk by :

Neil Timms will be giving a talk on the National Garden Scheme in Lincolnshire at the University of Leicester Botanic Garden on Monday September 7, 2026 10.30am for 11am start.

This event is an opportunity to learn about the role of the National Garden Scheme in promoting garden visits and supporting charitable causes. Attendees can expect insights into the importance of gardens in the community and how they contribute to local culture and heritage. It's a great chance to engage with fellow gardening enthusiasts and gather valuable information on the scheme's impact.

Venue:

The will take place in Beaumont House Stoughton
Road South LE2 2NA .Please note that visitors
should access the venue from the opposite side of
Stoughton Drive South entrance, and park in the
Glebe Road LE2 2LD. Non-members are welcome
to attend with a £2.00 donation, or free if they take
out membership on the day.Students Free

06/07/2026

Thanks for being a top engager and making it onto my weekly engagement list! 🎉 Jan Hood, Carly Bowyer, Ruth Fairley, Marietta Sharp, Christine Vernon

04/07/2026

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Lewis Tamatt, Carly Bowyer

30/06/2026

It was an incredible day at the Friends of the University of Leicester Botanic Garden Plant Sale and Family Day on Sunday. The event was exceptionally organized, showcasing a variety of outstanding plant nurseries, including the Leicester Branch of The British Cactus and Succulent Society. We had the pleasure of meeting many new succulent enthusiasts and reconnecting with familiar faces.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who took the time to chat or admire our plants. It was truly an uplifting experience.

Succulents, in particular, prove to be a valuable addition to gardens in the UK climate. Their ability to store water makes them well-suited for both indoor and outdoor settings, requiring less frequent watering than traditional plants. Not only are they resilient in varying weather conditions, but they also add vibrant beauty and uniqueness to garden spaces.

The stall organisers look forward to next year’s event, let’s continue to appreciate the joy and versatility that succulents bring to our lives. 🪴🪴🪴🪴

30/06/2026

Thanks for being a top engager and making it onto my weekly engagement list! 🎉 Ruth Fairley, Christine Vernon, Anita Smith