hi trev,
wish i could get over to see it.
talking with others who do open their gardens I think the best thing is to try and enjoy it yourself. When I visit gardens I like to be able to buy well rooted plants that i have seen in the garden. doesnt matter if they are not in flower. I also dont mind a few weeds, makes me feel better too :o)

I expect you have done all the insurance/liabilty stuff.

i am sure some of the brave souls here will get in touch too.

Good luck with it :-)

Yes good luck Trev. I visited a tiny charity garden last year, and as well as plants to buy, the tea and coffee and cakes were all flowing....bought of course!
Lots of seating would be good too especially for those who like to sit and view...:o)

Trev - I open my garden for the NGS, and they sort out all the necessary insurance. The most important things are on the list that Carol Klein gives to prospective Yellow Book-ers.

1. Cut the grass
2. Edge the lawns.
3. No large weeds!
4. Colour and interest.
5. Tidy away any 'rubbish' or distractions - like the hose!!
6. Be there to greet people and answer questions about your garden.
7. Enjoy it! ;-)))

I'd also agree with Sbg and Janey...I have a Visitors' Book, and it's lovely to read the comments later.

And finally - Good luck with it - let us know how it goes!

I read somewhere that the garden scheme requires a minimum of 45 minuets of interest? No loose paving etc even if you are insured? Good luck

In a small area, that 45 minutes can be divided amongst several small gardens i believe so that in a town setting several small gardens in one close location/street can open together, which they couldn't have done as one individual.

You're both right. You have to put a 'Caution' notice by any loose stones or wet surfaces etc, Denise, and yes, the garden must have 45 minutes of interest, but can open as a group.

thanks to you all for all the great advice and tips, I shall try to enjoy the day, hope the sun will shine and the people come !!!!!!!!!!!!! i will take some photos on the day and add them for all to see, once again many thanks. Trev

Yes, please do - we'd love to see your photos - but be warned - get someone else to take some! I found that I was talking to visitors and didn't get a chance to take any photos!