Time to go potty for plants

IT has to be one of the biggest events on the gardening calendar and is bright and sweet-smelling enough to turn even the most reluctant of horticulturalists a little bit potty.

Gardening Scotland 2011 is just around the corner, meaning organisers at the Royal Highland Centre are hard at work preparing the show ground for the thousands of people eagerly waiting to make their way through its doors on Friday for the three-day event.

With masses to see, this year's programme is more than impressive and organisers guarantee it will be a memorable event for keen gardeners and families alike - even those who wouldn't know a daffodil from a dahlia.

Here are the top five highlights you would be mad to miss:

1. Floral Hall

The centrepiece of the show, jam-packed with plants from some of the UK's top growers.

Expect to find medal winners from the Chelsea Flower Show selling award-winning plants in Edinburgh for the first time since getting their prizes.

In particular, look out for the Anemone "Wild Swan" which won RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year, bred by Scots couple Elizabeth and Alasdair MacGregor from Kirkcudbright.

Also expect to find some very exciting garden exhibits, including amazing creations by popular drystane dyker Nigel Bialy.

2. Show Gardens

This year will be a record breaker for Gardening Scotland with 14 show gardens on display for the public to marvel at, from the aspirational to the achievable.

Designers, landscapers and nurseries will be showcasing fashionable garden trends, while the next generation of talent offers up ideas and shows off their skills in the College Gardens.

All designers will be on hand to discuss their creations and offer advice to visitors.

Look out for "The Wonder of Community Gardening - Alice in Wonderland" at stand 360, themed on a community garden with the aim of encouraging local residents to take an interest in derelict land and how to develop it.

3. Pallet Garden Competition

Set to be one of the most popular attractions this year, this exhibit will show off the artistic creations of hundreds of youngsters from all across the country, including pupils from eight Edinburgh schools.

Measuring just 1m x 1m, entrants must create a garden in a pallet - the more creative the better. The challenge is the brainchild of the Scottish Gardeners' Forum and has the aim of encouraging future generations of young gardeners.

4. Demonstration Kitchen

Not only will the Scottish Women's Rural Institute be on hand to offer top tips on cake baking, but good food expert Wendy Barrie will be demonstrating her skills in the kitchen. She will be serving up a host of dishes, including salade nioise, brochette of lamb and Scottish berry trifle.5. The Big Back Garden

One of the biggest attractions at Gardening Scotland and a must for all families.

The Big Back Garden made its first appearance at the event a few years ago and has become a firm favourite with children who make the most of its bouncy castle, swings and wide open football-kicking space.

This year there will be skipping games, a sand and water play area, chalks and slates, and a range of play equipment laid out for kids.

Keeping to the plant theme of the event, a "plant doctor" will also be found in The Big Back Garden, on hand to offer advice on gardening problems.

• Gardening Scotland 2011 takes place from Friday to Sunday at the Royal Highland Centre. Tickets costs 16 (Friday), 14 (Saturday/Sunday) and children under 16 go free. To book, call 0131-333 0965 or visit www.gardeningscotland.com.