What to Expect on a Garden Tour at Heronswood

Quick answer

A guided garden tour at Heronswood is a 60-90 minute walk led by a knowledgeable guide who shares the history of this Mediterranean garden and shows you the seed trial garden where Diggers Club varieties are tested. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and a hat.

How to prepare for your Heronswood garden tour

1. Book your tour in advance: Tours can sell out, especially during peak season. Check the Diggers Club website for available dates and times. If you are a Garden Pass member, you may get priority access or a discount. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and lets you plan the rest of your day.
2. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather: The tour involves walking on gravel paths and uneven ground. Heronswood is a Mediterranean garden, so it can be hot and dry in summer or cool and windy in spring. Layers and a hat are recommended. A common mistake is wearing sandals that let in gravel or a hat that blows off easily. Sturdy closed-toe shoes and a hat with a chin strap will keep you comfortable.
3. Bring water and a small bag for notes or samples: There is no drinking fountain along the tour route, so carry a water bottle. You may want to jot down plant names or take photos for reference. A small backpack or crossbody bag leaves your hands free. Avoid bringing large bags that are awkward to carry on narrow paths. A reusable water bottle and a compact notebook or phone are all you need.
4. Arrive 15 minutes early and check in at the visitor centre: Check-in gives you time to use the facilities and ask any last-minute questions. The guide will gather the group near the entrance. If you arrive late, you may miss the introduction, which covers the garden's history and layout. Being early ensures you do not miss the context that makes the rest of the tour meaningful.
5. Ask questions during the Q&A and take notes on plants that interest you: The guide is a knowledgeable gardener who can share practical tips about growing specific varieties in your own garden. If you see a plant you like, ask about its growing conditions and where to source it. A common mistake is assuming all plants are available for purchase on-site, so ask about availability. The tour is your chance to get personalised advice from an expert.

Product details

• Garden Tours at Heronswood: Explore the newly established seed trial garden with our tour guide and learn about the process of selecting the varieties that the Diggers Club has worked hard to bring to Australian gardeners. This gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how plant varieties are chosen, which is useful if you are curious about what will be available in future seed collections.