This month we welcome James Haughey to Abbey Blooms botanical gardens. James is the horticulturist and head gardener at Sanctuary, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. Sanctuary consists of 79 acres of woodland, pastureland, river, lake, and 2.5 acre organic walled gardens. The pastureland is grazed by sheep and highland cattle. The walled gardens produce a wide range of fruits and vegetables along with chickens and an apiary. Sanctuary has become a wonderful amplifier of James’s inter

At Abbey Blooms Gardens, we believe that the best way to learn about horticulture, biodiversity, and sustainable land management is by getting your hands in the soil. Our Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in a working garden environment while developing a deeper understanding of plants, ecosystems, and soil health. Our CLaD internships in Abbey Blooms offers Our program is designed to provide a well-rounded, hands-on learning expe

My working day at Abbey Blooms Gardens begins at 10am, checking the bins and making sure each area is clean and ready for visitors. I check the flower beds, and pathways for anything that needs attention. Throughout the day, I carry out a mix of jobs working with my supervisor doing tasks from pruning, planting, and watering to general maintenance and weeding. I make sure the gardens stay tidy, healthy, and look well, always keeping an eye out for what makes the place look at