Nursery staff are breathing a sigh of relief as the country’s largest collection of Auricula plants bloom in time for an open day attracting visitors from near and far.

A just in time arrival of sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures means that the Woottens of Wenhaston’s collection of Auriculas will be flowering for their open day this Saturday (13th April) in Wenhaston.

Luci Skinner from Woottens said: “We’ve been on tenterhooks not knowing if the plants would come into bud and flower in time. In the last few weeks all our perennials were starting to flaunt their new fresh foliage but their buds remained closed. With regular feeding, artificial heat and lighting we are encouraging them to open.

“Our Auricula day is very popular and we get enthusiasts coming to it from all over the country. We were poised to postpone it but these last few warmer days have made quite a difference and we can now guarantee a show to wow.”

Woottens have the largest collection of Auriculas in the country made up of Alpines, Borders, Edges, Selfs and Fancies. The collection was started by the charismatic Michael Loftus who established the nursery 25 years ago. He was particularly passionate about Auriculas.

Over 400 varieties will be on display, including new and rare cultivars, and the nursery’s own experts are on hand to give advice on propagation, care and breeding at the free event.

The record breaking cold temperatures of February and March have impacted on nurseries and other horticultural trades.

“Spring had arrived this time last year. It will be interesting to see how quickly the plants catch up once it gets warmer. With a string of events lined up this year and persistent optimism we hope to encourage others to carry on gardening in this ever-changing climate. Gardeners are a hopeful, resourceful and resilient lot which is why we have some of the best gardens in the world” added Luci Skinner

The event is taking place at Woottens of Wenhaston, Wenhaston, Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 9HD on Saturday 13th April from 10am until 4pm.

Woottens are also holding their first garden fair on Sunday 5 May 2013 (10am – 4pm).

Local crafts and other specialist nurseries will come together at this free event.

Situated in rural Suffolk nestled on the edge of the village, the Nursery has one of the largest collections of herbaceous hardy perennials in East Anglia. Woottens also specialises in Bearded Irises, Hemerocallis, Auriculas, Pelargoniums, Hardy Geraniums, Violas and Snowdrops.