[Elaine]

This coming September, we will be on holiday in Kenmare, Bantry, Skibbereen, Kinsale, Dungarvan and points as yet to be determined in County Tipperary. Any ideas or suggestions for gardens, nature preserves, etc. to put on the list of "must see." The guide books show several, but it is always better to talk with the experts.

Also, what will be blooming at this time in the SE of Ireland? Our last trip took us through Counties Clare and Kerry. I was especially delighted with the window boxes in Kenmare. In fact (don't tell US Customs) I gathered some Columbine seed from our B&B in Dingle and have them in the ground. They have been buried under a foot of snow all winter, so I'm eagerly awaiting germination!

Thanks for all suggestions! Elaine

[verge]

Try these Elaine.
In Tipp, check out the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland's finest ruins.
Also the ruins of Bridgetown Abbey.
In Cork, check out Fota House and Grounds on Fota Island. It has a garden and arboretum with a wide range of exotics plants, growing in the garden's Gulf Stream microclimate.
You could also visit Lakemount Gardens in the Cork hills to view a lush garden.
There are also two smaller gardens open to the public in Cork city, Ann Moloney's beautiful 2-acre formal garden and Catherine McHale's small city garden.
_________________
Q. What is the best soil for growing plants?
A. Your soil.

[JennyS]

Hi Elaine,
If you're staying in Bantry you could head to Glengarriff and take a trip out to Garnish Island and see the garden there - and seals too. Some of the gardens listed in the West Cork Garden Trail are still open in September - think they've a website but I'm not sure of the url.
Muckcross House just outside Killarney is another one....plus you've got the Killarney Lakes.
Enjoy your holiday planning....
_________________
Irish wildflowers