
Charleston | Sissinghurst with Troy Scott Smith
April 15 @ 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

The Rose Garden in May at Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent
In 1930, writer Vita Sackville-West and diplomat Harold Nicolson transformed a neglected Elizabethan farmstead in Kent into Sissinghurst Castle Garden—now one of the world’s most celebrated gardens. Known for its intimate “garden rooms,” lush plantings, and internationally renowned collection of old roses, Sissinghurst remains a masterpiece of 20th-century garden design. As the garden approaches its centenary in 2030, join head gardener Troy Scott Smith for an in-depth look at its past, present, and future. He will share insights into the enduring legacy of Sackville-West and Nicolson’s vision, the challenges of conservation in a changing climate, and the ongoing efforts to keep Sissinghurst vibrant while preserving its historic charm. From the famed White Garden to the exquisite Rose Garden, this lecture offers a rare glimpse into the artistry and dedication behind one of England’s most treasured landscapes and explores the enduring magic of Sissinghurst.
Troy Scott Smith was borne in Yorkshire into a family of committed naturalists and spent his childhood exploring the geology and flora of the National Parks of England. He began his gardening at a young age, quickly developing a style of relaxed planting that mixed native wildings together with exotics. In 1990, after a total of 5 years studying horticulture and design, Troy joined the National Trust, Europe’s largest Conservation Charity. In the years since Troy has led the gardens at The Courts, Bodnant and Sissinghurst, where he has been Head Gardener since 2013. Troy combines his work at Sissinghurst with design and consultancy, writing, teaching and lecturing. Troy has recently taken on a small farm back in his home county of Yorkshire, where he continues to gently experiment, laying down sustainable planting for the future.
VENUE
Charleston Library Society
164 King Street
Charleston, SC 29401
In-Person: 6:00pm, Lecture is preceded by a reception 5:30pm
Purchase tickets through the Charleston Library Society at: https://charlestonlibrarysociety.org/event/sissinghurst-with-troy-scott-smith/
Or by phone: 843-723-9912
Tickets: $25 members; $35 non-members