Was Princes Charles right all along? Should we really be talking to our plants? Rita de Brún examines the latest research.

Don’t forget the West Cork Garden Trail which offers the best of 15 gardens in sublime locations for the viewing public. Opening times are available on www.westcorkgardentrain.com 

Glenville Flower and Garden Club will start its winter season with an interesting talk and slide show by Jim Wilson of Bird Watch Ireland on Tuesday September 29 at 8.30pm.

* 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.