Tomatoes

It's not too late to secure a spot at a two-hour tomato-growing workshop at the Rose Creek Estate in Keilor East tomorrow (Sunday December 2). Karen Sutherland is running two sessions, one from 10am to midday and the other from 2pm to 4pm, $45 a ticket. As well as hearing Sutherland's growing tips, participants will be taken on a guided tour of the property that has a vineyard, olive grove and huge vegetable garden. Go to opengardensvictoria.org.au to book.

Historic property

The restored 19th century garden at The National Trust property of Gulf Station, just outside the township of Yarra Glen, is open tomorrow (Sunday December 2). The property includes historic box hedges, an orchard, herbs, vegetables and an ornamental cottage garden, all arranged around historically significant farm buildings dating from the mid-1800s. The property, at 1029 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen, is open 11am to 3pm, $9/ National Trust members free.

French style

Marion Somes, who recently wrote a book about the making of her French-inspired house and garden in Gippsland, will this month give an illustrated talk about both Picardy the book and Picardy the property. Somes says her "love of all things French" has inspired her parterre beds, roses, annuals, perennials, olives and grape vines. Somes speaks at 10.30am on Wednesday December 12, Mueller Hall, National Herbarium, $25/$20 Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Book online at rbgfriendsmelbourne.org or phone 9650 6398.