At Esker Farm Daffodils we love nothing more than sharing our passion for bulbs, the land, and the people who make horticulture such a rewarding world to be part of. Throughout 2026, Dave and Jules Hardy will be delivering talks to gardening clubs, horticultural societies and specialist groups, as well as attending a range of shows and events across Ireland and the UK.

Whether you are looking for an light-hearted evening talk, a historical perspective, or an insight into modern bulb growing, we offer a selection of engaging presentations suitable for either specialist or general gardening audiences.

Talks We Offer:

A Year on the Farm – Life as a Daffodil Bulb Grower at Esker Farm Daffodils

Join Dave or Jules as they take you through the changing seasons at Esker Farm Bulbs, offering a behind-the-scenes look at life as a daffodil bulb grower. From planting and propagation to lifting, cleaning and preparing bulbs for shows and sales, this talk reveals the dedication and care required at every stage of production.

Along the way, they share insights into the breeding of new varieties, field management, coping with weather and other challenges; as well as the quiet rewards that come when the field or polytunnel burst into bloom. A year-round story of patience, passion and a deep love for growing beautiful daffodils.

Daffodils, Snowdrops and Beyond...

What began with a simple love of daffodils has grown into a wider bulb-growing journey that now includes snowdrops, crocus, lilies and many other treasures. This talk takes you behind the scenes of bulb growing in Northern Ireland, exploring the challenges of soil, climate and timing, balanced by the joy of spring colour and successful cultivation.

Dave and Jules will also reflect on plant shows, RHS involvement and the supportive community of growers and enthusiasts who continue to inspire them. At its heart, this is a talk about the beauty and resilience of bulbs – and the way they bring people together.

The History of Daffodils in Ireland

Travel through centuries of Irish horticultural heritage as Dave and Jules explore the fascinating story of daffodils on the island of Ireland. From early cultivated varieties and pioneering growers in 1800s, to the development of influential breeding lines and the rise of Ireland’s daffodil societies, this talk brings to life the people, places and plants that shaped a lasting passion for Narcissus.

Rich in history and personal insight, it is ideal for those with an interest in heritage, plant breeding and the cultural story behind one of Ireland’s best-loved spring flowers.

Garden & Bulb Field Visits
At Esker Farm we welcome groups to visit our garden and bulb fields by appointment only. If your group would be interested in arranging a visit, please get in touch for further details.

While February is the ideal time for those wishing to see our snowdrops in flower, our daffodil fields are usually at their peak in the second half of April. We can accommodate both small and large groups, with ample space available for coach parking. For groups travelling longer distances and hoping to make a full day of their visit, catering can also be arranged at an additional price.

Shows & Events – 2026

Throughout 2026, Esker Farm Bulbs will be attending, selling and exhibiting at a range of bulb, horticultural and specialist plant shows. These events are a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts, see new cultivars, talk bulbs in person and maybe treat yourself to a new plant or 2!

Planned appearances include:

• RHS and affiliated daffodil and bulb shows
• Specialist daffodil and snowdrop society events
• Selected spring flower and garden shows across Ireland and the UK

A full list of confirmed dates and venues will be added below as the season approaches.

Confirmed Events, Talks & Shows – 2026

                    15 January                  Zoom talk for Alpine Garden Society (Dublin Branch)

23–24 January
Snowdrop Gala, Ballykealey Hotel, Carlow
Dave will deliver a talk on Friday evening, with a bulb sale on Saturday afternoon at Altamont Gardens.

31 January
Northern Ireland Daffodil Group (NIDG) AGM
Dave will present a talk discussing the highlights of 2025.

6–8 February
Snowdrop Weekend, RHSI Bellefield, Shinrone
Esker Farm Daffodils will be attending throughout the weekend.

                 14 February               American Daffodil Society 2026 Virtual Winter Break   Zoom talk by Dave

21 February
Scottish Rock Garden Group Bulb Day, Dunblane, Scotland
Dave will be speaking to the group.

21 February
Alpine Garden Society (Ulster Group) Snowdrop Luncheon, Templepatrick
Jules will be selling miniature bulbs.

28 February
NIDG Winter Show, Coleman’s Garden Centre.

14–15 March
RHS Rosemoor Daffodil Show.

4 April
Royal Hillsborough Spring Flower Show.

10 April
Fermanagh Spring Flower Show
Including a visit from the RHS Bulb Expert Group.

11 April
Alpine Garden Society (Ulster Branch) Spring Show.

14–15 April
RHS Main Daffodil Show, Wisley.