We’ve all been there, right? Sucked in to joining on a journey to some new plant-infested place. I’ve been to shows, gardens, shops (everywhere) and have compiled a few tips to surviving these places.

1.Bring a camera (or your phone).

You may not have any interest in foliage, but I think everyone can agree that they are pretty. Why not take some lovely pictures while you’re there? They don’t even have to be about the plants - bees (and other insects) are always a very nice subject for photography.

2.Take it as an opportunity to learn.

Obviously, learning is not on the forefront of every teen’s mind. However, why not take an opportunity when presented? And especially when you’re traveling with someone well versed in horticulture -take the experience in your stride. See a plant you like? Ask about it. If they aren’t as knowledgeable; that’s no worries either - there are plenty of apps that’ll tell you everything you need to know.

3.Try to have a hand in picking the place.

Not all locations will catch your interest but there must be some that do. If your family is planning a day out to somewhere like a garden or a forest, try to get involved in where you’re going. You may find more excitement in your adventure if you are keen on going in the first place - maybe try and find somewhere with more than just plants: natural wildlife, a lake etc.

Overall, you just need to find little things to make these trips a little less tedious and a little more interesting. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be the one taking someone to your favourite gardens.

*Although I wrote this with the intention of relieving the boredom of such adventures, I must say that I do quite enjoy the gardens, flower shows and arboretums. (Not that I aspire to become a horticulturist or anything, but I do find interest in nature, especially as a girl in STEM)

Written by Flo Croud, 15