Sweet Peas, Summer Scents and Late Starts: A Gardener’s Honest Tale
Late sowing or not, Sweet Peas remain a must-have for any Irish summer garden. In this post, Peter Dowdall shares practical tips for growing scented Sweet Peas from seed, the...
Peter Dowdall’s Gardening Blog
Peter's Notes from the Garden
Welcome to Peter’s Notes from the Garden, the official blog
of Peter Dowdall, The Irish Gardener.
Here you’ll find seasonal gardening tips, planting advice,
and design inspiration for Irish gardens and beyond.
From shrubs and trees for structure to perennials for colour
and wildlife-friendly planting ideas, this is your go-to space for practical,
no-nonsense gardening advice all year round.
Featured post
Planting Plans vs Garden Design: How to Choose What Your Garden Needs
Many Irish gardens don’t need a full redesign, they just need the right plants in the right places. Discover the difference between a full garden design and a bespoke planting...
Peter’s Notes from the Garden.
3 Things to Notice in Your Garden Before You Plant a Thing
Before you buy a single plant, take time to really observe your garden. In this post, Peter shares three simple things to notice that will save you time, money, and...
Why the Mallow Home and Garden Festival is a Must-Visit for Garden Lovers in Ireland
Discover why the Mallow Home and Garden Festival is Ireland’s must-visit gardening event this May. Peter Dowdall shares what makes this show so special, from inspiring show gardens and rare...
Greening Cork City - How Urban Greening and Garden Design Can Transform Our Urban Spaces
Urban greening in Cork City isn’t just about beauty, it’s about biodiversity, sustainability, and better living. In this post, I explore how living walls, roof gardens, and thoughtful garden design...
Why Choisya Ternata Deserves a Place in Every Summer Garden
Summer is well and truly upon us. The early spring shoots have matured, and the garden is now alive with a riot of colour and life. Trees that stood bare...
How to Design a Low Maintenance Garden: Tips from a Professional Garden Designer
Discover how to design a low maintenance garden that looks stunning year-round with minimal effort. In this post, I share expert tips on plant choices, smart garden design, and easy-care...
The Garden as Sanctuary: Taking Time Out in a Busy World
Life moves quickly, but your garden doesn’t have to. In this post, Peter Dowdall explores how the garden can offer peace, perspective and personal sanctuary. Discover seasonal tasks like pruning...
Fota House Plant Fair 2025 - A Must-Visit Garden Event in Cork for Plant Lovers
A Day Out for Plant Lovers: The Fota House Plant Fair is Back There are few things that get gardeners as excited as the return of a proper plant fair...
Mediterranean Dreams and Irish Realities: Choosing the Right Plants for Your Garden
We all dream of recreating those sun-soaked Mediterranean balconies filled with Bougainvillea and fragrant blooms — but Ireland’s climate tells a different story. In this post, Peter Dowdall explores why...
What Is Lawn Thatch and Why Should You Scarify?
If your lawn is looking patchy or mossy, thatch could be the issue. We’ve put together a quick guide on what thatch is, how to remove it, and how regular...
The Best Way to Maintain Your Lawn: Why a Robot Lawn Mower is the Ultimate Choice
Want a perfect lawn without the hassle? Discover the best ways to maintain your lawn – whether you prefer a wild, eco-friendly space or a perfectly manicured look. Learn why...
Sowing First Early Seed Potatoes
Sowing First Early Seed Potatoes Are you looking to grow your own food and enjoy the delicious taste of new potatoes? Sowing first early seed potatoes is the perfect way...
Houseplants, On Trend Now More Than Ever
Indoor plants have become a popular trend, and for good reason. They not only serve as decorative elements but also act as natural air purifiers, improving the air quality in...
VegTub Aluminium Raised Beds - Grow Your Own Food with Style and Durability
Introduction Are you looking for a durable and stylish solution to grow your own food? Look no further than VegTub Aluminium Raised Beds! These innovative metal raised beds offer a...
Potting Benches in The Garden
Potting Benches: A Must-Have Garden Idea Are you an avid gardener, looking for a practical solution to make potting plants easier? Look no further than potting benches! These versatile outdoor...
October in The Irish Garden
Autumn Planting: The Time for Planting Spring Bulbs In the Irish garden, October marks the beginning of a new gardening season. With the arrival of cooler temperatures and shorter days,...