Articles of Interest

A selection of useful and informative articles to be read and enjoyed.

Dept. of Research

Investigation and answers to a wide range of queries concerning rhododendrons.


Look out for ripening capsules on your rhododendrons and collect seed to contribute towards the seed exchange. Rhododendrons and companion plants, from trees and shrubs to primulas and other perennials are accepted. Hand-pollinated seed is most sought after and can be an interesting skill to learn. It also helps preserve true species. How to Hand-Pollinate Rhododendrons

Send to our seed exchange manager, Willie Campbell.

Following on from our success in January 2026; we hope to continue brightening up those long dark January nights with a series of online presentations.

The Society organises an annual show at the end of April where competitors show their best blooms from every rhododendron section, including species and hybrids. Anyone may enter and a novice cup is awarded to the first time exhibitor who wins this class. A visit to the show will provide an excellent introduction to our society and you will receive a warm welcome.

Click here for results of previous show

The AGM is usually held the day before the show to maximise attendance. All SRS members are invited to attend the AGM at Gibson Hall, Garelochhead. The meeting will be available online via zoom. Connection details will be shared to members by e-mail nearer the time.

Our garden visits are usually well attended and give SRS members a a chance to join guided tours round gardens of all sizes, both private and public, in Scotland and further afield. Click Here for details of upcoming tour!

Summary of Spring Tour to Argyll Gardens 2024

Members of the SRS and Rhododendron Species Conservation Group (RSCG) are invited to attend a joint event held each Autumn. See Events Page for details of next event.

Presidents Newsletter

A page dedicated to regular news and updates from the SRS president

Education & Exploration

A fund set up by the SRS to provide grants for young horticulturists and gardeners.

Publications keeping you up to date with what is going on in the society. Contains interesting articles on cultivation, members gardens, visits and much more

A comprehensive publication full of in-depth articles about our favourite plants, both rhododendrons, and companion plants. We have a history of documenting plant hunting expeditions to rhododendron rich areas of the world.

Containing a wide variety of seeds from rhododendrons, trees and shrubs, primulas and other companion plants. Worth while joining the SRS for this alone!

Guided tours of gardens and nurseries, often visiting places not normally open to the public. Areas visited include Cornwall, Wales, Ireland, Southern England and areas of Scotland. 2024 Spring Tour of Argyll Gardens

Presentations by keynote speakers on all aspects of horticulture and plant conservation. Can also include garden visits/tours, practical workshops and demonstrations. Bring & buy plant auctions are a favourite and provide an opportunity to pick up a bargain and help raise funds.

Visit two of Scotland’s most prestigious ‘Himalayan Glen’ style gardens for free. Arduaine Gardens and Crarae Gardens in Argyll. Both gardens, along with other gardens of botanical importance are part of The National Trust for Scotland.

Increase your membership to include the ARS and expand your networking opportunities. The ARS quarterly journals are full of garden descriptions, cultivation hints and in-depth articles from around the world. Joining the ARS also gives you access to their seed exchange. Visit The American Rhododendron Society.

Gain access to the SRS website ‘Members Area’. Contains a comprehensive catalogue of ‘World of the Rhododendron’ publications and other archive material. Members Area

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