Fiann Ó Nualláin looks back at the life of Anne Elizabeth Ball, a botanist whose work is illuminating our future.

Up to sixty specialist nurseries will provide an opportunity for visitors to purchase unusual and rare plants, as well as garden furniture, pots, sculptures, ornaments and tools, at the Irish Specialist Nursery Association Plant Fair at Fota House and Gardens this weekend. 

* The award-winning garden of Gertie and Maurice O’Donoghue at Dromboy, Carrignavar, will open this Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 6pm in aid of the Friends of Marymount.

As Bloom prepares to open next weekend, Kya deLongchamps talks to exhibitor Fiann Nualláin about his unique approach