UPDATE for the Mediterranean Garden Fair 28 October 2017

Latest news on what will be available for you at the Mediterranean Garden Fair on Saturday October 28 open to the public from 11.00 to 16.00 at the Museum de Trajo in São Bras de Alportel.

· HOT OFF THE PRESS - we are very pleased to let you know that we have just received the first copies of the new Portuguese text version of the Wild Orchids of the Algarve ´Orquídeas Selvagens no Algarve´ and they will be for sale for the first time at the Garden Fair. This book has been sponsored by MGAP and we are very grateful to the author, Sue Parker, and to the translator, Teresa Chuva, for their hard work on a thorough revision for this important first edition in Portuguese. The cost per book will be held at the same price as the English text version, 12 euros, and it is fully illustrated throughout.

· The popular MGAP BOOKSHOP and information point inside the building to the right of the main entrance. Another book new to our list is “Flora do Algarve – Serra do Caldeirão e Barrocal” by José Rosa Pinto. This is a Portuguese text version, so it is great to now have these for our Portuguese visitors. We will also have the range of Native Plant Seeds for sale as well information about Membership – those joining at the event will have their membership taken through to December 2018 and will enjoy the full range of benefits including free access to an international seed scheme.

· BOOK your place on the popular Nature Printing workshops by direct message to mgapfairs@gmail.com workshops at 12.30 and 14.00 with limited numbers

· BULBS available for sale on the day will include the lovely Madonna Lily, Amaryllis belladonna and Scilla peruviana. All suitable for your algarve garden and great for naturalising. In addition are some species crocus and tulips, rarely offered but great for naturalising or using in containers for spring colour.

· Among the 20 outside exhibitors there will be approx. 15 plant nurseries with a wide range of plants suitable for your Mediterranean garden. These include succulents, grasses, shrubs and trees as well as fruit and olive trees, and tropical and container plants for colourful shows around the house.

· Inside exhibitors include botanical cards and prints, organic wines, pottery and clothing inspired by local plants. Stands with Information on Natural Swimming Ponds and herb teas and infusions – a total of 10 stands plus info on crime prevention and rural fire controls.

· Once again there will be FREE TALKS on Using Native Plants as Ornamentals, Fire Safety and Medicinal Gardens from our expert speakers.

· Also on offer will be vegetable plant plugs ready for planting, a range of organic produce, regional products, jams and chutneys, as well as spices and herbs.

· As last year, there will be an excellent choice of catering on site including hot meals, drinks and cakes with room to sit and enjoy the atmosphere and chat with friends.