Planting for Resilience – Gardening for an Unpredictable Climate with Jonathan Billinger - Thursday 20th August 2026
Thursday 27th August – £5.00
Will this summer be hot and dry, warm and wet, or something completely different?
With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, gardeners are facing new challenges every year. Join one of our horticultural experts Jonathan Billinger for an informative and practical afternoon exploring how to create gardens that can thrive whatever the weather throws at them.
Drawing on over four decades of horticultural experience, Jonathan will share practical techniques to help gardeners build resilience into their planting schemes, improve plant health and make better long-term gardening decisions. Adapted from the structure of your July talk page.
Shade, Shelter & Garden Microclimates
Learn how thoughtful garden design can help protect plants from extremes of weather, including:
- Creating shelter from wind and exposed conditions
- Making the most of shade during periods of intense heat
- Understanding garden microclimates
- Using trees, hedges and structures to improve growing conditions
- Protecting vulnerable plants from environmental stress
Water Management, Irrigation & Soil Resilience
Discover practical ways to help your garden cope with both drought and heavy rainfall, including:
- Water conservation techniques
- Improving soil moisture retention
- Mulching and organic matter benefits
- Managing waterlogged soils
- Improving drainage in difficult areas
-
Irrigation solutions for changing weather patterns
Choosing Resilient Plants & Improving Plant Health
Find out how the right plant choices and good husbandry can create stronger, more resilient gardens:
- Selecting plants suited to changing conditions
- Drought-tolerant and adaptable planting options
- Establishment techniques for long-term success
- Feeding and maintenance for stronger plants
- Reducing stress and improving plant performance
- Creating robust, sustainable planting schemes
Questions & Answers Session
The final 20 minutes of the event will be dedicated to audience questions, giving you the opportunity to seek advice on your own gardening challenges and planting projects.
About Jonathan Billinger
Jonathan brings a wealth of horticultural knowledge and practical experience to Radway Bridge Garden Centre.
- Over four decades working in horticulture
- BSc (Hons) in Horticulture from Bath University
- Experienced speaker and gardening advisor
- Extensive knowledge of plants, cultivation and garden management
- Passionate about helping gardeners achieve long-term success
This popular programme of gardening talks fills up fast, so we recommend getting you tickets early.
BOOK NOW