An evening of expert talks and discussion exploring resilient planting, wildlife gardening and adapting to a changing climate.

As our climate changes, so must the way we garden.

Join Ground Level for an inspiring evening of expert talks and conversation exploring how our gardens can become more resilient, biodiverse and better equipped for the future. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning your journey, you'll leave with fresh ideas, practical advice and plenty of inspiration.

Hear from a panel of renowned horticulturalists, ecologists and plant experts who are leading the way in sustainable gardening.

Speakers

Dr Erica McAlister – Senior Curator, Natural History Museum

An internationally renowned entomologist and expert on flies, Erica is one of the UK's most engaging science communicators. Prepare to discover the remarkable role these often-overlooked insects play in our ecosystems - you'll never look at a fly the same way again.

Toby Shuell – Zophian Plants

Skateboarder turned plant enthusiast and nursery owner, Toby has built a reputation for doing things differently. Through experimentation and hands-on experience, he specialises in growing resilient plants in challenging conditions, often using sandy soils.

Steve Edney & Louise Dowle – The No Name Nursery

With decades of horticultural expertise between them - including work at The Salutation and Canterbury Cathedral - Steve and Louise now run the ecological The No Name Nursery, championing beautiful, climate-resilient plants grown with nature in mind.

Tim Hewitt – Head Gardener, St Mary's Church

Tim will host the evening, sharing his passion for drought-tolerant planting, wildlife gardening and creating resilient green spaces.

Evening Programme

Welcome and introduction

Talk by Dr Erica McAlister

Talk by Steve Edney

Drinks break

Live panel discussion and audience Q&A with Tim Hewitt, Toby Shuell, Steve Edney and Louise Dowle

Closing remarks

A bar will be open before the event and during the interval, offering the perfect opportunity to meet fellow gardeners and continue the conversation.

Event Details

📅 Tuesday 29 September

🕡 6:30pm – 8:30pm

📍 St Mary's Church, Walthamstow

For the first time this year, you'll have the opportunity to pre-order plants from The No Name Nursery and Zophian Plants and collect them on the night of the event.

Whether you're inspired by the speakers' favourite drought-tolerant plants or looking to add something resilient and wildlife-friendly to your own garden, this is a unique chance to take home carefully selected plants from two exceptional specialist nurseries.

Further details on how to pre-order will be shared via email and our social media channels soon.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Description supplied by the event organiser.