Here at Hilltop Garden Centre, we’re always looking for ways to share our love of gardening with our amazing community — and what better way than with a friendly, hands-on workshop led by our very own plants expert, Carmel?
We’re thrilled to announce our next in-person workshop happening on Saturday 30th August, and trust us, it’s not one to miss. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just beginning your gardening journey, this session promises to be both practical and inspiring — not to mention a whole lot of fun.
What’s the workshop all about?
Our workshop this time around is focused on some of the most useful skills you can have as a gardener — mulching, propagation, and composting. It’s called “A Hands-On Workshop” for good reason. You’ll get stuck in with the practical side of gardening and take home not just new knowledge, but actual plants you’ve worked with!
The session runs from 10am to 12pm, and spaces are limited to keep things friendly and focused, so if you're keen, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. The cost is £39.99, and we’ll even provide the drinks (because gardening is thirsty work!).
Here’s a little look at what we’ll be covering…
Get ready for autumn: Mulching & winter prep
If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your garden in great shape through the colder months, this is the perfect session for you.
Carmel will guide you through mulching, an essential but often-overlooked gardening technique that helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve your soil. You’ll learn when, why and how to mulch effectively — and the best materials to use, especially here in Essex’s changing weather.
Carmel will also talk about getting your garden winter-ready. A bit of prep can save a lot of work (and plant heartbreak!) come November. Carmel will share her top tips for helping your borders, containers, and soil stay healthy and protected through the winter, so your garden is raring to go when spring arrives.
The magic of propagation: Splitting perennials
Want more plants for free? Yes please!
Propagation is one of those wonderfully satisfying gardening tricks — and splitting perennials is one of the easiest ways to do it. During the workshop, you’ll get hands-on experience with dividing established perennials — learning the right time of year to do it, the best techniques, and how to care for your new plants afterwards.
Best of all? You get to take home some of the plants you’ve worked with, giving you a living reminder of your day with us. It’s a lovely way to grow your garden while learning something new.
Composting know-how
We’ll also be digging into the topic of composting (pun fully intended).
Whether you're brand new to composting or looking to improve your current setup, Carmel will walk you through how to start and manage a compost bin effectively. From knowing what to include (and what to avoid) to tips on speeding up the process and avoiding those common composting mistakes, this part of the workshop will leave you feeling confident and inspired.
It’s one of the best things you can do for your garden — and the planet — and we’re here to make it simple and doable.
Drinks & a friendly chat
Of course, no Hilltop workshop would be complete without some refreshments! Tea & coffee will be provided to keep everyone energised as we get stuck into the workshop. There’ll also be time for questions, relaxed conversation, and the chance to meet other local garden lovers.
These sessions always have a great atmosphere — warm, welcoming and packed full of useful info - as the feedback from past workshops show. Whether you’re coming with a friend or on your own, you’ll be in good company.
Why book a workshop?
We know it’s easy to find information online these days — but there’s something really special about learning together, in person. You can ask questions as you go, try things out there and then, and learn directly from someone who’s not only experienced but passionate about plants.
Carmel has helped hundreds of customers over the years here at Hilltop Garden Centre just outside Clacton-on-Sea. Her knowledge is second to none, and she has a real gift for making even the most complex gardening tasks feel simple, achievable and fun.
And let’s be honest — there’s something magical about being surrounded by plants, getting your hands in the soil, and picking up new skills at your favourite garden centre in Essex.
Book your spot today
So, if you’d love to grow your gardening skills, meet like-minded people and enjoy a relaxing, productive morning surrounded by beautiful plants, don’t miss this!
Workshop Details:
📅 Date: Friday 30th August
⏰ Time: 10am – 12pm
💷 Price: £39.99 (includes drinks and takeaway plants!)
📍 Location: Hilltop Garden Centre, Clacton-on-Sea
Spaces are limited, so pop in-store to book or click here to register your interest. We can’t wait to see you there!
Got any questions? Give us a ring on 01255 831083 or drop us a message on Facebook — we’re always happy to help.
From all of us here at Hilltop Garden Centre — happy gardening, and we hope to see you at the workshop soon!
